Windsor Op Shop Officially Opens!

On Saturday 16 November, Anglicare's Windsor Op Shop grand opening ceremony was held. The ceremony brought together local leaders and Anglicare staff to celebrate the opening of this new venture in Windsor, an historic agricultural town in Sydney's north west.

With staff, and dignitaries including the Mayor of Hawkesbury City, Les Sheather and MP for Hawkesbury, Robyn Preston and Anglicare's CEO and Chief Executive of Community and Mission in attendance, the event emphasised both community connection and the positive impact of Anglicare's Op Shops.

Following the Welcome to Country given by Rhiannon Wright from Merana Hawkesbury Aboriginal Association, Andrew Ford, Chief Executive of Community and Mission gave a blessing and prayer, followed by Simon Miller, Anglicare's CEO who then spoke:

"Op Shops play a multi-faceted role in the community - they act as "hubs" for connecting people, meeting needs, providing food for the hungry, volunteering opportunities and provide a way to give back," said Simon.

"We're excited as this is our 35th Op Shop to open. Anglicare hopes to continue our long-term commitment to the Hawkesbury area."

In their speeches, both the Mayor of Hawkesbury City and MP for Hawkesbury emphasised the importance of promoting the awareness of environmental sustainability in the purchase of pre-loved goods, and they also highlighted the role Op Shops play in helping to support less fortunate individuals in the community.

Following the formalities, there was the requisite ribbon-cutting, along with cutting the celebratory cake, with guests enjoying morning tea afterwards.

"Windsor's close-knit community is set to benefit from this new space where residents can both shop and connect - a space which also gives locals an opportunity to contribute to the broader work of Anglicare, through purchasing sustainable and affordable clothing and homewares," said Jeff Drayton, Head of Retail at Anglicare.

"The community has such a warm heart and we've been so encouraged by the number of locals who drop in regularly across the week and share their stories with us.

"Not only does Anglicare build stronger communities through our mission, but our Op Shops in turn are supported by strong communities, and we especially feel that here in Windsor. It's no coincidence that many of our Anglicare services are focussed in the Hawkesbury area and that our partnerships here are amongst the strongest Sydney-wide."

The Windsor Op Shop features an expanded section for homewares and furnishings, and a unique and beautiful bridal aisle as well as a Community Pantry in store.