Via Wings brings more ‘Hope & Soul to Dromore
Towards the end of June, award winning Dromore charity, Via Wings, opened a charity shop with a difference.
Hope & Soul, which is located at 33 Market Square in the town, will be selling more than just the usual bric–a–brac. It’s a community venture, second–hand store with key pieces of barely worn, stylish clothing, vintage jewellery, as well as some locally made necklaces, along with some upcycled furniture and fittings.
Upstairs is a coffee bar called the Olive Branch and a soft play area known as Carol’s Corner, both dedicated to two sorely missed ladies who were special to the project and its founders.
The Olive Branch serves top–notch cappuccinos, lattes and espressos (or tea if you prefer), which you can enjoy with a homemade scone or cupcake. Hope & Soul and the Olive Branch are staffed entirely by volunteers. All profits are ploughed back into the mother charity, Via Wings, to continue their work of showing God’s love in a caring, practical and non–judgmental way.
Since 2009, Via Wings has undertaken several ambitious projects, including the Dare2Care essentials bag scheme for families in need, the House of Hope, providing a place for young mums to find support, build self–esteem through counselling and courses that are both practical and educational. Several of the young women have gone onto further and higher education as well as employment.
And earlier this year they launched the Yorkie Club, a men’s group which is seen as a chance for the guys to find friendship and inspiration.
Hope & Soul extends the charity’s mission into the heart of the town. According to Centre Manager Sue Johnston, “Hope & Soul allows us to build a sustainable income for the charity, while providing practical work experience for some of our end users.”
The premises have received a one–off makeover by volunteers and supporters of Via Wings. The look is ‘shabby chic’ with an eclectic mix of bright wallpaper leftovers, donated furniture that has been repainted and a counter built from odds and ends.
“We’re not aiming to compete against other charity shops and cafes but to help towards the regeneration of the town,” says Sue. “And, as the coffee bar will be open one evening a week, it will provide a place for young people to meet.”
See some great photos of Hope and Soul’s opening day here.Via Wings has strong links to Dromore Cathedral. Read the charity’s ‘Faith Story’ here.