THE SPCA’s ‘thrift shop has been a dream since the 80s when vice chairman, Cheryl Whittaker drew a pencil cartoon of the ‘Paws Awhile’ logo.
Today (Monday) the shop became a reality when the doors opened at the Five Ways Mall in Empangeni.
‘As fast as people are dropping off donations, the stock is being sold,’ said Cheryl with a smile.
The first day was a barking success for the shop with a constant flow of customers.
But Whittaker said this could never have been possible without the help from the community.
Derek Moor and his team from the Moor Group assembled all the shelving, Alpha Security is offering their services to protect the charity shop and of course the community have given generously to the SPCA.
The shelves are full of good quality books, ornaments, games, bags, shoes and clothing – for humans as well as pets.
Manning the cashier’s desk is Alex Moore and a team of volunteers.
Anyone who would like to donate good-quality, fully functional items to the shop can pop in and meet the team.
On the wish list is children’s toys, crockery, linen, pots and pans, puzzles and clothing.
‘Paws Awhile’ is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm and on Saturday from 9am to 1pm.
