Pop-up op shop brings care and support

A pop-up op shop will help connect those in need with support services and basic needs as part of Homelessness Week next month.

Operating as part of Homelessness Week, which will be held from August 5 to 11, the Anglicare Community Centre Pop-Up Op Shop will provide free clothing, haircuts and food to those in need.

Anglicare WA housing support worker Marie Burman-Wiegele said the op-shop would help connect people who were homeless or experiencing hardship with support services, as well as some basic needs.

“It’s like a one-stop shop for the day, where those who need our assistance will have access to free clothing, personal hygiene products, haircuts and a free lunch,” she said.

Shelter WA chief executive Michelle Mackenzie said homelessness was a Statewide issue and Homelessness Week would raise awareness beyond the Perth CBD with events across the State.

Led by Shelter WA, Homelessness Week is part of a national week of events which aims to raise awareness of, and ultimately end, homelessness.

This year’s theme in Western Australia is “Home, Safe Home”.

Ms Mackenzie said housing must be the first priority for people experiencing homelessness.

“Once they have a safe home, support workers can assist them to work through other more complex matters which may be an issue in their life. Everyone has the right to a place to call home,” she said.

Homelessness Week 2019 has an extensive calendar of events that will explore the lived experience of homelessness and what the community can do, and are doing, to help end homelessness.

The Pop-Up Op Shop will run on Wednesday, August 7, from 10am-1pm at St Nicholas Community Centre in Rockingham.