A new charity shop has been officially opened in Johnston. Following a short dedication and prayer time led by Rev. Geraint Michael, one of the ministers at Broad Haven Baptist Church, volunteers gathered to celebrate the shop's opening on September 10.
The HELP Charity Shop is part of a community initiative managed by Broad Haven Baptist Church. The shop will be run by volunteers, who will be issued with special clothing bearing the HELP logo. The funds raised by shop sales will be shared between local community and over seas projects.
"UK relief and development agency, Tearfund, will be a major beneficiary," said Tearfund's church representative and area co-ordinator, Francis Maull. "Other aid agencies like BMS, Latin Link and Broad Haven's work with Romania projects will also receive support." continued Francis, who also hopes that the shop will be a means of raising the profile of Tearfund amongst the volunteers.
The supporters of the HELP charity shop are keen to see many new customers, and hope that their varied stock will attract people from all over Pembrokeshire.
Local support is vital if the project is to be successful. The amount of funds raised will have a direct impact on local and oversees communities. "Those purchasing goods will be equipping us to change lives," said Tearfund's local media officer, Sharron Hardwick. "Projects like HELP are a vital tool in Tearfund's vision of tackling global poverty. We locals, and visitors to Pembrokeshire, will play a crucial role in this excellent initiative. Our actions can make a real difference."
The HELP charity shop address is 2 Glebelands, Johnston. Opening times are: Monday to Wednesday and Friday - 10 am - 3.30pm; and Thursday and Saturday - 10 am - 12.30 pm.