By Ivor Hughes
St Vincent’s latest charity shop in Leeds opened last July. Truly a giant of a charity shop with 300 square metres of floor space, it is located in Unit 4 of Centre West Retail Park on Stanningley Road.
To celebrate its success and presence in the community, the Armley superstore is inviting people to join them at 11am on Wednesday, 15 February for a blessing conducted by Father Philip Hall of St Benedict’s in Garforth. Refreshments provided.
The Armley store is open 9am-5pm Monday to Saturday and 10am-4pm on Sunday. Telephone 0113 481 0088. Enquiries, donations, volunteers and new customers are always welcome.
There are two locally held misconceptions about St Vincents, the brand name of the London-based St Vincent de Paul Society.
First, and although they have a furniture depot, several retail outlets and a community/advice centre all in Leeds, they are not Leeds based. They have 47 charity shops throughout England and Wales.
Secondly, SVP’s efforts are not confined to the homeless. Since 1844 their aim has been to relieve poverty and disadvantage throughout society and, while their clientele inevitably include the homeless, they also support, advise and visit other vulnerable individuals and families.
