Charity shop in Liverpool raised £400,000 for international and local causes

Rachel Walker describes how her parents operated an ecumenical charity shop in Huyton, Liverpool, for more than 40 years.

The shop served a disadvantaged area and provided social benefits to the local population. Volunteers found friendship and purpose while working there, and the shop even offered community service placements to students seeking the Duke of Edinburgh award. The shop also hosted notable figures like Tony Wilson and served Fairtrade coffee to its patrons.

After covering all operational costs, the shop distributed £400,000 in funds. It sent 75% of that money to Christian Aid to support a water project in Mali. The remaining 25% went to local charities chosen by the volunteers who worked in the store.