A new shop has opened this week on Church street Shildon after months of anticipation.
The old St Theresa charity shop that has been closed for over three years has been lovingly refurbished and a dedicated family has reopened it as “Second chance”.
Mother and daughter duo Pam Petty and Jill Hodgson (ne Petty) bought the shop to save it from decline and to reopen it in memory of a beloved granddaughter and niece.
Pam who for years had volunteered and worked at both St Theresa’s and Children in Distress before they both closed, decided to put her many years of experience to good use and in turn support the “Olivia Mae foundation”
The charity was chosen due to it’s close links as it was founded after her own son and daughter-in-law after they sadly lost their daughter Olivia Mae.
During Olivia Mae’s time in hospital parents Richard and his wife, also called Pamela, took time away from their jobs to stay next to her bedside. However, this highlighted how many families really struggle to afford expenses, including travel and mounting bills, when caring for a sick child in hospital.
The foundation was created in her memory and offer grants and emergency money to help ease the burden during a stressful time. Since 2013 the not-for-profit charity has raised over £50,000 with volunteers running the great northern run, three peaks challenges, head shaves and more.
Talking to South West Durham News Jill explained:
“My mum and I have discussed how we could support the Charity for a long time as this year is poignant as it would have been Olivia Mae’s 18th Birthday. Plus, we really wanted to offer Shildon a shop with lots of nearly new items at great prices, that are cheaper than your large chain charity shops, who’s price’s are increasing so much that many can’t even afford to shop there!”
Pam is delighted with the reformed premises, “We have worked really hard for months now to get the shop ready. It’s lovely to work with my daughter and raise essential money for a charity so close to our hearts and in turn help many more families in the future”
Second Chance is open 6 days a week for donations and of course to pick up a great bargain or two!
To find out more about Olivia Mae’s story and how you could support the Charity, see their website www.oliviamaefoundation.org.uk
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
Great news ladies and good luck. The shop looks fabulous. Xx
Champion njoy ladies x
Good luck with the shop ladies, it’s looking great xx
👏👏👏
Do you accept donation?
Baz Chappers