GUEST SPEEKERS – Veronica Whittaker

 

Veronica spoke about for their shop “clothes for you” was run and operated, she said they get no support from local government and it took her 12 months to get the shop were she could now say any donations are tax deductable, Veronica also said the homeless situation on the Peninsula was getting worse for homeless Woman and also men, they have 2 shops ,one near Rosebud Toyota for the woman and one near the cinema for the men, they have over 40 volunteers helping in the shops and looking for clothes to re stock here 2 shops, Veronica goes to other stores and askes for donations, she said they don’t give money but they do give clothes instead, Veronica doesn’t mind that because that’s what they need anyway.

Veronica said the main things they need at the moment were toilet paper, tooth paist and tooth brushes, Veronica also needs money donation so they can buy thing needed when the time arises.

The idea of the 2 shops is to help and support people when they come into the shop sometimes with the only clothes they are wearing is all they have, they might be going for a job interview, court or just need clothes, they are not asked any questions and are not judged for the situation they are in, could be domestic violence or drug affected, there all welcome to come into the shop.

They also help with a laundry and shower service once a week in Rosebud ,opposite the foreshore, they also have a hairdresser that comes in once a week to do free haircuts for the homeless and needy.

It was a great talk, disappointing to hear what is happening on Peninsula, but unfortunately it is happening all over the country.

President Peter said he would bring this situation up with the board and see how our club can help.

 

If any other clubs can assist with this growing situation, please go and see Veronica or one of the staff at the shop in Rosebud, she would love to hear from you, thank you.