Both stores would like Moree residents to know they are much more than just “second-hand stores”.

LifeHouse store manager Casey Ryan said crisis and community support is offered to local people in need through the store.

“If someone’s house burns down or they find themselves in a time of need, the store is a safe place where people can come to find support, help and advice.

“Often we refer people to certain local services that can also help them.”

Mrs Ryan also highlighted the volunteer program in the LifeHouse Care store where people can learn customer service skills, stock rotation through the food pantry, cash register skills and much more.

She said the program was full of success stories where volunteers came out of their shells and started believing in themselves and, most importantly, making new bonds and friendships.

“Usually young people in the program will say ‘oh I can’t do that, or this’ but with a little bit of help they pick up the skills and become more confident and now a lot of them have regular jobs because of this volunteering experience.”

The LifeHouse Care store also has a pick up truck for anyone wishing to donate items but are unable to drop them off, and a food pantry that is open every Thursday from 10am until 12pm.

Meanwhile, Salvation Army store manager Rhiannan Dempster said it was important to note that a lot of donatable items were still ending up in landfill rather than local op shops.

“We are here to take those goods, bring them back to life and find them a loving home. We are working with the Men’s Shed to refurbish old furniture in need of some touch ups. 

“I want to raise awareness of recycling and repurposing second hand goods through our store. Even shirts with holes in them can be made into rags,” she said.

During the week, the Salvation Army has been running store-wide sales and there is a competition running where shoppers could win themselves a $50 gift voucher.

“Just pick out an outfit, dress the manikin and the photos will be put the Moree Thumbs Up Thumbs Down page for people can vote for their favourites.”

Mrs Ryan and Ms Dempster said both of their stores would not be able to run without their volunteers.

Profits from each store goes back into their work in the Moree community.

Pop into the Salvation Army and LifeHouse Care store sometime this week to find out more.