How Anglicare Op Shops Changed Liz's Life

A beloved local op shop can offer so much more than well-priced, pre-loved clothes. And perhaps no one knows this more than Liz, the manager of two Anglicare op shops at Kiama and Berry.

"It's not an overstatement to say Anglicare op shops saved my life."

Three and a half years ago Liz lost her oldest son Darryl, who was 37 years old. The profound grief she experienced completely took over her life, until eventually her other children insisted she get out of the house and back into the community.

Liz and Darryl had shared a love of op shopping, so when Liz walked into an Anglicare op shop and saw a sign asking for volunteers, it felt like the perfect invitation. A week later she was an official volunteer. "From that moment, my life changed. All of a sudden I had purpose."

Above: Liz pictured at Berry Op Shop

Before long, Liz was offered the position of manager at the Kiama op shop and then Berry as well. Under Liz's passionate leadership these have become two of Anglicare's most successful shops, but she sees their true value in the connections the shops create.

From supporting people experiencing homelessness to finding an outfit for that special event, to helping connect people with many of Anglicare's services our teams create space for genuine friendship and they meet people at their place of need. Op shops are creative welcoming places where we can find treasures and connection.