Opportunity or Op shops are an excellent way to buy recycled goods at cheap prices. Not only can you grab a bargain but you can also help raise money for the wider community.  Most people are aware of the larger chain shops usually ran by religious based organisations. But if you want to put your money towards something more secular, there are some amazing OP Shops located in the Dandenong Hills who raise funds for more alternative charitable organisations.

One of the memories I have from after my parents split as a child was my now single mothers association with the unique organisation Parents Without Partners Inc. The work they do and the help they gave my family was invaluable. PWP are the only international organisation that exist to help single parents in the way of discussions, professional speakers, study groups, publications and social activities for families and adults.  The PWP Op Shop located on the corner of Burwood Hwy and Sandells Road in Tecoma are an outstanding choice for extremely cheap and interesting second hand goods. Items have general prices and are not individually tagged, if unsure just ask one of the friendly volunteers. The ladies in the shop are extremely kind and the money raised is going directly to an outstanding and necessary community organisation.  https://www.facebook.com/Pwptecoma/

In Monbulk on the upper end of Main Street is the Monbulk Primary School Op Shop. All the funds raised from this wonderful shop go directly to improve resources to the children at Monbulk Primary School, to help provide better learning and educational programs. Prices are extremely cheap and often determined by the wonderful lady behind the register. The shop is filled with bargains, and a genuine warmth from the Volunteers. It is a pleasure just to visit and chat with the staff. https://www.dosomethingnearyou.com.au/3793/organisation/monbulk-primary-school-op-shop-1590128

At the other end of Main Street is the MS Australia OP Shop, that exist to raise money solely to help those who suffer with Multiple Sclerosis. With no cure MS effects over 23,000 people world wide. Multiple Sclerosis is a condition of the central nervous system, interfering with nerve impulses within the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves. Sclerosis is a Greek word meaning scars. These scars occur within the central nervous system and depending on where they develop, manifest into various symptoms.  Half the money raised in the shop goes directly toward MS sufferers while the other half is devoted to research for treatment and the end game, a cure. The shop is well set out and has a multitude of well priced good quality items available. Definitely worth a visit.  https://www.facebook.com/MSCommunityShops/

Up the end of Main Street in Belgrave is the Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Inc. Op Shop. They exist to raise money to provide a no judgement support care and aid network for those who are doing it tough in the Hills area. DRER have been helping people in Belgrave and the surrounding area for many years with clothing, food and monetary assistance to those facing hardship and calamity. Visit this shop, pick up a affordable and unique item, while your money goes directly to helping those around you. http://www.drers.org.au/

All of these Op Shops also need ongoing donations of excellent quality goods and of course Volunteers. Next time you have stuff to donate, remember the alternative options out there to recycle your unwanted things. Good for you, good for your community and an outstanding choice for the environment.