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Isobel Reader, manager of Mitchelstown NCBI Charity Shop – ‘vital that donations are maintained’. Photo: Tom Hurley

NCBI (National Council for the Blind of Ireland), is one of Ireland’s oldest and most respected charities. Opened way back in 1999, the NCBI Charity Shop in Mitchelstown shares the general problem of scarce donations which is also affecting their other 69 stores nationally.

“It’s vital that donations are maintained as the shop currently helps support 25,434 people in Cork who are blind or visually impaired,” says Isobel Reader who has been manager for 8 years.

“Getting enough suitable items to sell is a struggle. Don’t forget that we want lots of other things besides clothing. If thinking about spring-cleaning and decluttering, keep us in mind,” she said.

She advises readers to check their cupboards and consider donating things they find that are never used. “It might be something that somebody else would like to buy.”

BIG DEMAND

Isobel says that the nationwide shortage of used clothing and household linen has occurred because so much is exported overseas. “There are also far more shops dealing in these articles, some for charity, others as ordinary businesses. The recession created a big demand for cheaper garments, while individuals hesitated to part with clothing they had only worn a few times.”

NCBI Charity Shops also stock new items specially purchased, especially at Christmas and other festival times. Isobel is urging the public to visit them and in particular, the Mitchelstown outlet, as they are sure to find an interesting mix of clothes, shoes, records, glassware, toys, ornaments, etc. “At the moment we have our spring wear in stock, so don’t miss it. You’ll find us at the top of the square."

She also took the opportunity to thank all volunteers and customers for their support over the years.

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