This article is from page 13 of the 2012-01-17 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 13 JPG
THE support of the public has helped the Simon Community provide vital assistance to homeless people in Ennis. The newly established Mid West Simon Charity Shop provides a source of income to allow the charity to provide a specific service on-site to the people of Clare.
Homeless or people at risk of homelessness can drop into the coffee dock to pick up literature and information on housing issues, tenant rights and the options that prevent homelessness or to be housed.
Anyone wishing to speak a professional can make an appointment to see a Mid West Simon Housing Support Officer on a Tuesday or Thursday between 2pm and 4pm. There is a focus on accessibility of information in a relaxed and informal environment.
Volunteer staff in the shop at Woodquay, Ennis, have been delighted with the support from Clare people both in terms of donations of goods and customer support. The shop has a number of events planned over the next few weeks.
Fundraising Coordinator Susan Ward said, “We realise that there is no point in holding onto winter wear that is much needed now until spring so our manager and volunteer staff are preparing for a Winter Clothes Blitz this Thursday through to Saturday (January 19 to 21).
“All winter jackets, woollies, coats and accessories are reduced by 50 per cent – huge bargains at fantastic prices. We’re also anxious to introduce the integrated coffee dock so management are offering a free cup of tea or coffee with every purchase of € 10 or more during this promotion.”
In the meantime, all incoming children’s clothing and accessories will be tagged and priced in preparation for a kids’ clothes promotion during the first week of February.
The coffee dock is open to all visitors and it is hoped it will become a favourite drop-in for the people of Ennis.
Susan explained, “The shop relies solely on the generosity of the public and management would like to take this opportunity to thank everybody for their continued support and to ask the people of Clare to keep donating clothes, bric a brac, books and household ware.”
Any unwanted items of clothing or other household goods can be dropped in between 10am and 4.30pm, Tuesday to Saturday.