Red Cross appeals for Christmas helpers
'Tis the season for giving and the Australian Red Cross is on the lookout for volunteers to run the Kununurra branch during its busiest time of year.
More donations than ever are given during the festive season, with about 21 bags of goods dropped at the store each week.
Volunteers sort, label and sell donated items to raise funds for those in need in Australia and the Asia-Pacific.
Kununurra Red Cross manager Rose Sullivan said the end-of-year swell in donations was caused by people leaving town, spring cleaning or just feeling generous.
"It means a lot of work for volunteers as we end up with bags and bags of clothes waiting to be sorted," she said
"The sooner the clothes get on the shelves the sooner they will sell, which is a good thing."
Linda Hill, who has worked at the store for a year, said spending a few hours there was a great way for people to better themselves.
"The skills are transferrable, you learn a lot about customer service," she said.
Volunteers gain a paid police clearance if suitable, as well as the chance to learn a host of administrative and hands-on tasks involved in running a store.
"For people who are retired, have a few extra hours in the day or who just want to help their community, this is a good opportunity," Ms Hill said.
Cash-handling, stock preparation, administration and customer service are embraced.
Ms Sullivan said any time people could help would be appreciated.
The Kununurra outlet is staffed by volunteers aged 18 to 68.
The Australian Red Cross will celebrate 100 years next year.
To find out more, phone 9168 2967.
About the Red Cross
1. Kununurra and Broome are the only Red Cross stores in the Kimberley
2. Kununurra's store opened in 2009
3. It has 4500 volunteers in Australia
