KNYSNA NEWS - Every week they quietly unlock the doors of the Knysna Animal Welfare Society (Kaws) welfare shop, sort through donated goods, greet customers with a smile and ring up sales.
They ask for nothing in return except the knowledge that every item sold helps care for abandoned, neglected and vulnerable animals.
These women are the silent heartbeat of Kaws.
For more than 12 years, Margo Green has given her time as a volunteer at the welfare shop, driven by what she describes as her unconditional love for animals.
It is a sentiment shared by fellow volunteer Elaine Haarhoff, who has spent the past five years at the shop after first volunteering as a dog walker at Kaws.
"I saw the desperate need at Kaws and it almost broke my heart," she says. "I realised I had to do something to help."
Everyone of the shop's 16 volunteers has a different story, but they all share the same motivation - a love of animals and a desire to make a difference.
According to welfare shop manager Duré Franken, those volunteers are nothing short of indispensable.
"Without them we might just as well close the shop," she says. "There is a special feeling that comes from knowing you've helped someone. Volunteering gives people purpose, builds confidence and self-esteem, and reminds them that they really can make a difference."
The shop is far more than just another second-hand store. It is the financial lifeline that keeps Kaws operating.
"We are by far the biggest contributor to Kaws' financial well-being," says Franken. "If we don't generate enough income, salaries cannot be paid and the day-to-day running of Kaws is affected. That's why our volunteers carry such a huge responsibility. They work tirelessly behind the scenes, often without any recognition, to keep this place going."
The shelves tell the story of a generous community. Donated clothing, books, furniture, jewellery, paintings, puzzles, household items and even the occasional wedding dress fill the shop.
"Good quality wooden furniture always sells quickly," says Franken. "And every cent we make goes back into caring for the animals."
Nothing goes to waste. Items that cannot be sold are donated to people in need, ensuring that every donation benefits someone.
Franken has a simple message for residents.
"If you have good quality items gathering dust in cupboards or storerooms, please consider donating them to us. Those unwanted belongings could help feed, treat and care for an animal that desperately needs it.
"Our volunteers give their time freely. Now we are asking the community to help us continue their work. Every donation, no matter how small, helps us care for the animals we all love."
‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’
