The Community Shop extends a helping hand to other Lochgilphead organisations

In addition to saving tonnes of textiles from landfill, Lochgilphead’s Community Shop has raised so much money in its first 18 months that it is ready earlier than expected to offer grants to important local projects.

This new funding source will support groups with grants of up to £500 and has now opened for applications.

Chairperson of the shop’s board of directors Stuart McLellan said: “We are delighted to announce the opening of our Community Shop Fund.

“Following our first full year’s accounts, we’re thrilled to already be able to establish this funding opportunity to further support the community. 

“If the truth be told, we didn’t expect this part of our community benefit would come to fruition this quickly, as we’re only just over a year old and still growing.”

Stuart explained that the board’s initial focus has been on ensuring the shop’s longevity by reinvesting heavily in the first year and extending the shop, which has led to increased sales and the shop becoming self-sustainable.

The shop has doubled in size since it first took over the unit previously occupied by the popular Mary’s Meals charity. 

This has increased the premises’ retail space, run by its team of 15 dedicated volunteers, and has provided a small socialising area allowing locals to drop in and enjoy a chat.

Due to its growing success the Community Shop is seeking to employ an assistant manager to support the manager and volunteers. 

Application forms and a job description are available from the shop; the closing date for applications is March 30.

Stuart thanked everyone involved with the shop’s success: “The fund, and other positive impacts the shop is having, are all down to our donors, customers and supporters, so a huge thank you to you all; together we make a difference!”

Applications for grants can be made via a form on the shop website: www.thecommunityshop.org or on paper copies available from the shop during opening hours.