Turning left at the Bongaree Jetty up First Ave, you will see a small set of shops containing a range of cafes, plant nursery, clothing, furnishings, chemist and dentist. At the end of the row of shops is the Hospice Op Shop.
Hospice Op Shop sells donated, high quality goods including clothing, books, CDs, decorative items, antiques and knick-knacks of all descriptions. A roster of over 30 volunteer staff, managed by hard working Nell, prepares goods for sale at reasonable prices. This op shop is often rewarded by comments from customers about how bright and tidy the shop is, and how friendly and helpful the volunteers are.
What makes this store extra special is that all profits fund high care respite and palliative care for local residents at Bribie Island Aged Care Services. Since August 2009, this greatly needed, accredited high care has been managed by the trained nurses and support staff at the Foley Street Churches of Christ Care facility.
Funded by profits from Hospice Op Shop and other fundraising activities, 24 hour high care in the family friendly environment of the Hospice Suite is available at no cost to local families. Close family members are able to remain with their loved one during their stay in the private suite.
Fundraising income is boosted by morning teas, lunches and popular coach trips. The Hospice Association offers local residents the opportunity to enjoy a pleasant day out in cheerful company, with coach travel to a range of venues that include QPAC and Caloundra theatres, clubs, garden events, vintage train excursions and short, local cruises.
Many other local organisations support the Hospice Suite fundraising with regular, very generous donations. The Cornett family have been long term donors, and Busy Fingers Fundraisers have made a generous, monthly contribution since August 2009.
Boronia Cottage at Bellara, owned by the Hospice Association, offers short term residential respite for carers of the frail and elderly. The cottage is a modern, accessible, purpose built house with four ensuite bedrooms and outdoor patio areas. Care is provided by qualified staff employed by Suncare Community Services. Home cooked meals are offered, sleeping in is an option, doing nothing is always possible, as is driving to the waterfront for lunch at a café.
Webster Place is an ambitious project subject to local and government lobbying. On a large block of land overlooking bushland, Webster Place will be a residence for people who need support to live well. When built, Webster Place will be home to up to 16 residents who will have their own private bed sit within a purpose designed building, with ready access to the outdoors. Webster Place, when open, will be managed by an approved aged care provider
If you would like to donate, volunteer or learn more about these local services please ring the shop on 3408 3615, or drop in for a shopping trip at Shop 4/23 First Ave, Bongaree.