Whanganui Women's Refuge pop-up shop exceeds fundraising target

Carla Jayne Smith (left) and volunteers Hester Vroon and Mollie London with some of the regularly-changing stock in the Charity CHEST shop. Photo / Stuart Munro

With a week of its three-week season to go, the Whanganui Women's Refuge pop-up shop Charity CHEST has already exceeded its income target.

"I can't give figures but it went off with a bang," co-ordinator Carla Jayne Smith said.

"Our opening night was packed and we had a big crowd waiting outside for us to open.

"It's been very popular and we've had people coming in once, twice, three times a week. There's a buzz in the air and the community support is incredible.

"There's a lot of amazing clothing from weekend wear through to formal. We've had all ages coming in. The whole shopping experience is about making it easy for people to shop."

About 25 volunteers have been helping to run the shop.

"None of this could happen without people donating and without the volunteers," Ms Smith said.

Some volunteers worked for most of the day, others for a few hours and some filled in when other people were not available.

The shop will be open until Saturday, April 7, in the former Shanton shop at 52 Victoria Ave. There is a daily prize draw for people who spend more than $50.

The money raised will help fund the Refuge's services for Whanganui women and children.