Why Your Purchase Has Power

Secondhand shopping with a heart; how you help change lives across Otago.

At Shop on Carroll, every vintage jacket, curated homeware piece, and preloved treasure is part of a much bigger picture. When you shop with us, either in store or online, you’re not just choosing sustainable fashion; you’re supporting essential community services that make a real difference.

As a proud part of Presbyterian Support Otago, your purchases help fund Family Works Otago, a service dedicated to supporting tamariki, rangatahi, and whānau to be safe, strong, and connected. Family Works also walks alongside tangata whaiora, individuals seeking wellbeing, on their unique journeys toward healing and strength.

Your contributions help sustain an incredible range of services, including:
Social Work & Parenting Support
Financial Mentoring & EnergyMate assistance
Children’s Programmes & Youth Development
Foodbank & Emergency Welfare Response

Whether it’s helping a child find confidence through a school programme, ensuring a parent has tools to navigate tough times, or simply making sure a family has food on the table, your purchase is part of this life changing initiative. 

Family Works operates with compassion, cultural inclusivity, and a deep commitment to working in partnership with our communities. Their services are accessible, non-discriminatory, and grounded in ethical, respectful relationships. They honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi and are dedicated to serving the diverse cultural makeup of Aotearoa with care and dignity.

So yes, that $5 vintage tee? It might just support a youth development programme that gives a child hope for their future. The $20 you spend on that gorgeous preloved dress? It could help keep the Family Works foodbank stocked for those facing a crisis.

This Meaningful Monday, we invite you to pause and reflect on the ripple effect of your purchase. You’re not just shopping sustainably, you’re helping build a stronger, more supported community. And for that, we’re endlessly grateful.