Every Saturday is ‘Drop and Shop’ day at Keilor shopping centre, part of a local initiative to make sure donations of secondhand clothes and household goods make it to the people who need them.
The Salvos, in partnership with Keilor Shopping Centre management, has set up a designated donation point so shoppers can leave donations on their way to the stores.
More than 10,000 kilograms of goods have been donated at the drop and shop point since the initiative begun in 2013.
Salvos Stores marketing co-ordinator Aife O’Loughlin said the drop-off point meant reusable items did not end up at the tip, plus their resale value – more than $40,000 so far – has been directed back into the Salvation Army’s special programs.
“It’s been absolutely fantastic,” Ms O’Loughlin said. “We’re always looking for really good quality donations and this way makes it easier for our consumers as well.
“We appreciate people are busy these days and often don’t have time to go to our store during the week.
“Bringing a donation point to consumers makes it easier for them.”
Every Saturday, from 8am to 1pm, a Salvos Store representative sets up a truck and clothing bins in the centre carpark, ready to collect good quality, unwanted household items and clothing.
Shopping centre manager Rosemary Cain said she was happy with results from the drop and shop centre.
“The Salvation Army does great work within our community,” she said.
For more information on what can be donated, visit www.salvosstores.com.au.
