Seven months after it was gutted by fire Fr Riley’s Op Shop has risen from the ashes, reopening at a new location.
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The charity, which raises money for Youth off the Streets, is now trading at 35 Lee Street, Maitland, next to St John The Baptist Primary School.
Shop manager Robert Innes said the business has lost about $100,000 in trade since the fire.
“That was a significant loss for our charity,” Mr Innes said.
“After the fire we were unable to find suitable premises. Yes we are no longer in High Street but the rent (in Lee Street) is affordable,” he said.
Maitland Police were treating the November 2016 blaze as suspicious.
Firefighters worked to contain the High Street fire after a 000 call was placed.
“We are now fully operational with the same phone number (49334433) which should be connected next week,” Mr Innes said.
“As usual we are looking for donations of all goods so long as they are clean and saleable,” he said.
Mr Innes said donations are welcome during store trading hours.
“We now have CCTV monitoring all around the new site and will be taking action against anyone identified leaving goods after hours,” he said.
The charity is continually looking for volunteers both men and women.