This work is as important today as it ever was and is only possible through generous donations and support of local people and businesses.

Until recently the shops were run by Notting Hill Housing Trust, but from October 2007 the shops are run by Octavia Housing. The income generated from the shops will be used to support the Octavia Foundation.

What is the Octavia Foundation?

Octavia Housing operates in central and west London, providing affordable homes for those in need. The Octavia Foundation is a registered charity that aims to improve the quality of life for local residents and support local communities. Both organisations derive their name from Octavia Hill, the Victorian philanthropist. She believed that providing good quality, affordable housing was important but that housing alone was not enough to build strong communities. The Octavia Foundation works with local voluntary and community groups to develop well-thought out projects that improve the quality of life for local people. Our goal is clear: to help local communities to grow and enhance people's quality of life.

Behind the counter

The success and appeal of the shops is down to the work and commitment of our experienced staff team and volunteers.

Volunteeering and community working helps to build better, stronger communities. The enthusiastic, dedicated people that give up their time to work in the shops already play an important role in the community.

And we're creating opportunities for volunteers to get involved outside of the shops, for instance with our annual Funday and our mentoring schemes.

Together we can make a difference

The shops have built up a reputation for good value and quality goods including designer labels, and even the odd celebrity cast-off. We also get end of line and ex-sale stock from designers as well as donations from stores like Gap and Urban Outfitters.

Donating to our shops is the ultimate in recycling. So if you are bored with some of your clothes, you have an unwanted present or too many books then send them our way - someone else will be delighted with them.

The money raised in our shops will help to improve the lives of disadvantaged local people. And that's got to be good for everyone in the community.

What donations will help to fund

• Building more low cost affordable homes for those without permanent accomodation in central and west London
• Projects for older people including a befriending service, lunch clubs, day centres and holidays for those with low incomes that otherwise would not be able to afford a break.
• Debt and benefits advice for low income families.
• Support for local community projects through grants to individuals and local groups