A Whakatāne non-profit has made over 100 gift boxes full of presents for people who might not have much under the tree this year.  

Heart Space Thrift Store has been running Operation Shoebox, distributing gift boxes filled with new and high-quality pre-loved donated items to families across the community.

Heart Space owner and operator Jade Adams works at the shop at 17A Commerce Street alongside a small team of volunteers.

“We’re all volunteers here, so it’s a non-profit and it’s for the people,” Ms Adams said. “Our prices are low, we just pay our overheads, and we give a lot out for free.”

“We do get a lot of families in need that come in here, and this way we can give them Christmas presents prepared for all ages,” she said.

“For this initiative we have asked the community to please donate new items too, because new items make people feel good.”

This Christmas the team has prepared and distributed more than 100 shoeboxes.

Volunteer Rachel Collings co-ordinated this year’s Operation Shoebox.

Ms Collings said the level of need has been confronting.

“Without a doubt,” she said when asked if demand has increased. “It’s not just low-income families. It’s people going through medical events, people who’ve gone from two incomes to one, elderly people by themselves, people experiencing homelessness or housing issues. It’s huge and so much more than what people realise.”

The shoeboxes include a wide range of items such as toiletries, stationery, jewellery, soft toys, bubbles, crystals, and gifts for men and teenagers. Gift vouchers for the Heart Space shop are also included, so older children can choose items themselves.

Beyond Christmas, Ms Adams said the initiative would continue year-round.

“We’re going to carry this on throughout next year, not just for Christmas but for special days like Mother’s Day, and even just for families in need,” she said. “Any new items that come in get put away for this.”

Heart Space Studio offers children’s clothing for $1, with adult clothing capped at $5. The shop also provides free baby items, school uniforms, and books.

“People come in and tell us their story, and we can help them out as much as we can,” Ms Adams said.

Ms Collings said the space was about more than shopping.

“Often people come in and tell us their story, have a few tears, and then leave smiling,” she said. “That makes it all worthwhile.”

The shop is open on Boxing Day and reopens again on January 2.

January shop hours are Wednesday to Friday from 10 am to 1pm, with late night Thursdays until 6pm. Donations are welcome during opening hours, with all proceeds going back to the community. r mission is to support the community with affordable items,” Ms Adams said. “We’re for the people.”

To keep up with what the Heart Space team is doing, follow them on Facebook @ Heart Space Thrift Store.