By Peter Douglas
THE Treasure Corner Op Shop in Mount Evelyn is just one of many shops in the region getting into the Christmas spirit.
With plenty of bargains and ‘hidden gems’ available for shoppers, there is good reason to avoid the crowds of large shopping centres and trawl the local shopping strips.
Treasure Corner shop manager Rae Tabone said they always tried to make a big effort to deck out their shop with plenty of Christmas cheer.
“It’s one of our favourite times of year, and we enjoy decorating the shop for our community,” she said.
Ms Tabone said there was added reason for bargain-hunters to check out their shop, with much of their proceeds heading over to India to support those in need.
Ms Tabone has been on numerous team trips to India and holds a special place for the people.
She insisted the help they offer is “a ‘hand-up’, not a ‘hand-out’, as we say”.
“The funds go to help people by teaching them new skills such as sewing or typing, so they can earn an income,” she said.
The Treasure Corner shop is affiliated with Two Hands International, which aims to make a real difference in the lives of thousands living in poverty-stricken villages throughout southern India.
The organisation believes that giving hand-outs does not release people from the cycle of poverty, so they work towards trying to help them become financially independent.
Meanwhile, in the Yarra Ranges, there are plenty of options to explore.
Almost every town or village has one or more opportunity shops, which support their local communities, schools, churches, hospitals and other worthy causes.
These days, it’s a badge of honour to get a great op-shop bargain.
So, check out what you can find this Christmas.
Treasure Corner can also be found on Facebook, where you can get regular updates on upcoming events and sales.
The shop is located at 37-39 Wray Crescent, Mount Evelyn.
