In general, the range of charity shops which are on the go all over Ireland are institutions in themselves. They are retail outlets which sell mainly second-hand, donated goods to raise funds for their parent charities.

Anyone who pops in for a rummage in any of the shops will find a wide range of items available. Most of the goods sold in charity shops are donated by the public, however some of them sell what are known as ‘bought-in’ goods. These are new goods which are bought and sold for profit.

Many shops especially smaller ‘Hospice’ shops only sell donated goods, but ones such as Oxfam sell both bought-in and ethically-produced ‘fairtrade’ goods. They also get many donations of bric-a-brac, and you never know what gems you could come across.

The clothes are usually the biggest seller. There is always a wide range of clothes for men, women and and children, books galore, toys, ornaments, kitchenware, videos, all different kinds of music to suit every taste! Some sell furniture and other household goods, which are obviously a lot cheaper than the high street retail prices.

Many of the people working in the charity shops give of their own personal free time and energy and volunteer in order to give support to help sick and deprived children, homeless people, mentally and physically disabled and animal welfare and lots of other causes.

Volunteering can be very enjoyable, as it gives a chance to meet new people, make new friends, become part of a team while learning new skills. Special training isn’t needed but the feel-good factor of giving your own spare time is very rewarding!

Anyone of us can call into any of the shops and donate goods, but for any item that would be deemed too large as in space-wise, check with the shop first.

Charity shops are a great help and have a huge impact on the environment. If a large proportion of the clothes donated were not accepted, they would end up being discarded into domestic waste. The shops ensure that most of the goods are reused. Clothes that cannot be sold are recycled. It all contributes to a cleaner and greener environment.

People from all walks of life bring items into the charity shops on a regular basis and when you see the price tags attached to almost everything on display it’s a real bonus.

Mrs. Quins Charity Shop in Ringsend, for instance, has bargains galore so pop in and browse.