Dulwich Hill opens community store
Dulwich Hill corps officer Major Peter McGuigan welcomes customers to the open day on 8 November.
A new Salvation Army community store in Dulwich Hill was officially opened on 8 November with the hope of reviving the once-thriving business district.
More than 150 people attended the open day and were given the opportunity to tour the new light-filled store and enjoy a sausage sizzle, to the background of live music performed by Dulwich Hill Corps member David Peters.
Dulwich Hill Community Store Manager Mark Andrews says there has been positive feedback from the community since the store started operating in the new location in early October.
“We don’t want people to think of the store as just a fund-generating venture but as something that receives and gives back to the surrounding neighbourhood. Myself and the staff want to treat the community as our family. Our store connects with people and it’s a part of their life more than just a shop down the road,” says Mr Andrews. "That is why we want to refer to it as a community store."
The new location sits in the once-bustling business strip of Dulwich Hill. However, over the past 20 years businesses have slowly closed their doors. Mr Andrews hopes that this new store will not only bring in more customers, but also to the other remaining neighbouring shops and businesses.
“Here’s this Salvos community store on the corner bringing life back to this neighbourhood and it is just a beautiful thing to see,” says Mr Andrews.
Dulwich Hill corps officer Lieutenant Tara McGuigan says the new store is helping The Salvation Army connect with their local community.
“The layout and space of the new premises makes it comfortable for shopping and browsing. People just pop in to say hello and check out our new merchandise even if they don't intend to purchase anything,” says Lieut McGuigan.
"We want people to feel at home, safe and relaxed when they walk in through the doors and are greeted by a friendly face, a warm hello and some lovely music in the background".
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