Renee Moir is as “busy as a bee” these days.

And, for good reason.

Lifeline’s area manager of its Newcastle and Central Coast shops is putting the final touches on the organisation’s latest store in Morisset.

Residents will be able to buy affordable new and pre-loved goods – from fashion to accessories, shoes to home decor, electrical goods, music, books and much more – while helping fund local suicide prevention services, when its doors open on Thursday 23 June.

The premises is Lifeline’s third in Lake Macquarie and takes its total number of Hunter shops to 10, following the unveiling of a similar facility in East Maitland in April.

Other locations include Cardiff, Hamilton North, Maitland, Nelson Bay, Raymond Terrace, Singleton, Toronto and Wallsend.

“We’re very excited to be in Morisset,” Ms Moir said.

“Our shops have some beautiful homeware and fashion pieces to help people to create a great look for themselves or their home without spending a lot of money.

“Op-shopping is the budget and environmentally friendly way to buy something for yourself or as a gift.

“By purchasing our quality items, shoppers are giving them new life and preventing them from going to landfill.

“Many people don’t realise that local Lifeline centres rely on proceeds from its shops to fund contributions to the 13 11 14 service and others such as free face-to-face counselling.

“Our op shops are vital to Lifeline being there for people in the community in their time of crisis – to listen and to offer hope.”

Lifeline is currently trying to meet record demand for its services and support, according to Ms Moir.

“With many people in the community still struggling with the impacts of COVID-19 and flooding, as well as the rising costs of living, calls to Lifeline are up 25%,” she said.

Ms Moir also added Lifeline shops operated thanks to the generous support of local volunteers and donations of quality pre-loved goods from residents.

But, more assistance was required.

“We are presently in need of winter fashion, including men’s, and winter Manchester such as blankets,” she said.

“We’d love to hear from people who want to serve or work behind the scenes in our shops, too, even for just a few hours a week.

“Working in a Lifeline store is a great way to meet new friends and give back to the local community.”

The new premises is located at 3/20 Yambo Street under the Morisset Serviced Apartments and opposite the Morisset Square shopping centre.

It will open Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm, and Saturday between 9am and 4pm.

People wishing to volunteer should phone 1300 152 854.

Donations of goods can be made at any Lifeline shop or its Hamilton North warehouse.

Local Lifeline support

• Telephone: 13 11 14
• Lifeline Text: 0477 13 11 14
• Chat online: www.lifeline.org.au
• Free face-to-face or online counselling appointment bookings: 1300 152 854
• Community training and other support: www.lifelinehunter.org.au