THE Bus Stop Recycle Shop is closing in on its fund-raising target of $100,000, recently moving past the $70,000 mark.
The Kerang shop, staffed by 38 volunteers, is raising money for a community mini-bus that will include a hydraulic lift and spaces for two wheelchairs. The bus will be available for hire by donation.
With the shop only opening on May 28 last year, president Carol Barton said she never expected to reach the $70,000 milestone so soon.
“It has gone beyond our wildest expectations; people have been fantastic in supporting us,” she said.
“It’s a service that’s needed, and people can see the need so that’s why they’re supporting us.”
Mrs Barton said there was currently no wheelchair transport available locally, with the closest wheelchair taxis in Swan Hill and Echuca.
The fund-raising campaign began in 2007, reaching about $9500 before it was put on hold because of the 2011 floods.
The campaign was given a major boost last year with a $10,000 donation, while a steady stream of shop patrons has kept the tally ticking over ever since. Mrs Barton said she hoped the bus would be purchased and available for use by Christmas.
“We will continue raising money after that to keep the bus on the road and we might take on another project,” she said.
The shop welcomes donations of clothing and small household goods.
