KNYSNA NEWS - "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated," said Mahatma Gandi.
The Knysna Animal Welfare Society (KAWS) shop epitomises what Gandi said in the way the local community care about animals by contributing in many ways to support this immensely important organisation, said deputy mayor Esmé Edge on Saturday, October 10.
Edge officially cut the ribbon, thus 'christening', the newly revamped and enlarged premises of the charming KAWS shop in Knysna's Market Street.
She praised those who donated generously to the shop, the tireless volunteers and the organisation for its valuable work in finding animals homes and in their important work of spaying and sterilising animals.
Chairman of KAWS, Marten van Leeuwen, said: "You need money to make money which is why we now have a bigger premises to encourage people to come and enjoy shopping,"
He praised shop manager Mikey Price for doubling the income in the last six months and thanked the volunteers who run the shop, members of the community who donate items to sell and the customers without whom there would be no income.
Van Leeuwen also thanked 34° South for the snacks provided on the day, another member of the community willing to give for a worthy cause.
The appointment of a full-time shop manager, Price, at the end of March this year already marked a big turn-around for the shop.
Sales for the period April to July increased by 216 % and the net profit was R121 000.
The previous financial year saw a substantial financial loss.
The shop now boasts a small library area, an outside courtyard area with plants and garden items for sale and a 'wall of art', making it a great place to browse for all sorts of treasure.
Recently, the KAWS shop launched a range of gift vouchers. Van Leeuwen explains, "By buying a voucher, you are not only supporting KAWS, you are also enabling someone who may not be able to afford to buy clothes and perhaps something special for themselves, to do so with the voucher. So, we see it as doubling the charity and we hope that the public will support this initiative."
The R25 or R50 vouchers can be bought at the KAWS shop.
KAWS is happy to help recycle those no-longer wanted or needed clothes and household goods. No item is too big or too small.
If members of the public are unable to drop off goods at the shop during opening hours, they can call 072 909 5847 and manager Mikey Price will arrange for someone to collect the goods.
The shop is open Monday to Thursday from 10:00 to 14:00; on Friday from 10:00 to 16:00; and on Saturday from 09:00 to 12:00.
Knysna’s deputy mayor Esmé Edge, seen with KAWS chairman Marten van Leeuwen, cuts the ribbon to declare the extended and revamped shop officially open.
Israel Gama of Knysna is an artist who really enjoys looking for books on art at the KAWS shop. Photos: Elaine King
Ian and Natalie Shrosbree, who have given much time and love to KAWS.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOS: ELAINE KING, KNYSNA-PLETT HERALD - EDITOR
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