A charity shop in Holbeach which raised and donated more than £27,000 to local good causes last year has sets its target even higher in 2015.
Chosen Charity is a phenomenal success and keeps growing – so treasurer Iris Boland wants to raise £30,000 this year.
It’s a remarkable story for a shop floor measuring just 6m x 5m, with a small sorting area out the back.
Iris said: “With such limited space we have to keep our prices low for a quick turnover.Our prices are far, far cheaper than any other charity shop.”
January 7 marked the second anniversary of the charity’s move to the current premises in Fleet Street.
Chosen Charity started life just a few doors away on April 30, 2011, when it was founded by three local ladies – one of whom, Mary Cooper, is still involved with the charity.
Iris said: “Since moving we have gone from strength to strength.
“The reasons we are so successful are we have a very dedicated team of 15 volunteers, and we get excellent support from our customers – whether buying or donating – because they know their money is going to support their local community.”
Everybody in Chosen gives their time freely, and all of the volunteers vote on which good causes receive donations.
Manager Mary can be found most Sundays in the shop, with any volunteers available, sorting the bags of donations to get ready for Monday’s trading.
The most popular item is ladies’ clothes.
2014 statistics:
Total donations: £27,360
Largest donation:
LIVES £3,000
All of the following received a donation of £2,000:
Callum Pite Smile Charity
Mencap
Merchant Navy Association
Royal Anglian (Holbeach) Benevolent Fund
Hovenden House
Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal
Spalding PHAB Club
