Vision Australia close the doors on its three Victorian op shop locations through late 2019 and early 2020.
Vision Australia has made a decision to refocus on its core mission of providing specialised services to people who are blind or have low vision and as a result will close the Rye, Somerville and Bentleigh stores at the end of their respective lease periods.
“The closure of the stores is by no means a reflection of the quality of work that has been carried out and the pride of our volunteers and staff in the three locations. This has always been at an exceptional level and we are grateful for their hard work and dedication,” Graeme Craig, Vision Australia General Manager Victorian Client Services and Service Innovation, said
“They have made a valuable contribution by providing quality low-cost clothing and items and a place for people within Rye, Somerville and Bentleigh to come together and contribute as a community,” Graeme said.
Each location will close at the end of its current lease period. The Somerville and Rye stores will close at the end of October 2019, followed by the Bentleigh store closing by the end of March 2020.
Vision Australia is aware of the impact the closures will have on the volunteers and community in the wider region as they have been a hub of support to many.
A volunteer recognition event will be held following the closure of each location. Volunteers will be able to discuss the closures and explore other opportunities with Vision Australia.
Vision Australia also thanks the wider community for their support of the op shops and the impact that has had for the blind and low vision community.
“We would also like to thank the public for their support of our op shops. All funds raised through these locations have gone toward supporting people who are blind or have low vision,” Graeme said.
For further information on how you can continue to stay involved or donate to your local Vision Australia, please contact: 1300 84 74 66 or visit www.visionaustralia.org
Media enquiries: Vision Australia Senior Communications Advisor Phil McCarroll – 0416 632 253 or [email protected]