A community-minded charity shop is cutting prices to help customers during the run-up to Christmas.
The East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) store in Main Road, Upper Dovercourt, is running its first Blue Cross Sale to support those who may be ‘feeling the pinch’.
The sale gets underway on 4th November and will feature a range of different items every week until January.
“It’s our way of saying thank you to the wonderful customers who loyally support our beautiful shop,” said manager Kathryn Newell.
“We have many regulars who donate and buy items, and now we want to do something to show our gratitude, especially at a time when everyone’s feeling the pinch.
“It can be a difficult time of year, especially amid a tough cost-of-living crisis.
“We know people’s pockets are being squeezed, and that’s why there’s a heavy emphasis on making things more affordable.
“We’ll have plenty of reductions across the shop, with some great prices on everything from trousers and dresses to blouses and jumpers.
“It’s a goodwill gesture to our customers and a fun way to pick up bargains.”
The sale coincides with the launch of EACH’s Perfect Gifts range, which is being rolled out across its shops from 1st November.
The strapline is ‘affordable gifts for the whole family’, and the aim is to provide ideas and inspiration during the busy shopping season.
Items include everything from clothing and toiletry sets to children’s toys and games, with all of them chosen as ideal gifts for families and loved ones.
Meanwhile, Kathryn says the team are looking forward to getting in the community spirit between now and Christmas.
The shop will be staying open late, until 7.30pm, on Saturday, 26th October, for the Harwich Guy Carnival, while tickets for this year’s Christmas raffle go on sale from 11th November. The team will also be running a tombola and lucky dip.
Kathryn says she is always on the lookout for new volunteers willing to join her team at Dovercourt.
There are various opportunities to suit people’s skills and interests, with a particular need for anyone willing to steam clothes or list items on eBay. There is also a current shortage of helpers on Fridays and Saturdays.
To find out more, pop in for a chat, email Kathryn via Kathryn.Newell@each.org.uk or call 01255 442707.
EACH relies on voluntary donations for the majority of its income. This year alone, it needs to raise £7.5 million from donations and fundraising activities and £8.7 million in retail income. Only 15% of its income comes from the government, county councils and the NHS.
