Birmingham Hospice is set to open a new charity shop in West Bromwich on Monday, July 6, offering fresh hope for treasure hunters after a £38,400 find at an Oxfam branch in Harborne sparked excitement across the region.
New Shop Details
The new store, described as 'bright and welcoming', is located at 203 High Street, West Bromwich, B70 7QZ, in the former Cancer Research shop. It will open its doors at 10am on July 6.
Managed by Emma, the shop aims to raise vital funds for the hospice, which provides end-of-life care to people in Birmingham, Sandwell, Solihull, and Sutton Coldfield. Emma said: 'Myself, Katie and the team have been working hard to give West Bromwich a new, bright and welcoming charity shop. West Brom has a strong and caring community, one that we are excited to be a part of. We hope to build a strong relationship with the community, all while raising vital funds for the hospice.'
Recent Treasure Find
The opening follows a remarkable discovery at Oxfam in Harborne, where a first edition of JRR Tolkien's The Hobbit was donated. The book was sold at auction for £38,400, with staff unsure if the donor knew its value.
This find has reignited interest in charity shopping, as treasures can hide among everyday donations. According to Oxfam staff, the book was found in an 'ordinary' pile of donations.
Impact on Community
Birmingham Hospice relies on its charity shops to fund its services. The new West Bromwich branch is expected to strengthen ties with the local community while generating income for the hospice. Emma added: 'A lot of work has gone into preparing the shop for opening and we are eagerly awaiting its arrival.'
Charity shops in the region have seen increased footfall following the news, as residents search for hidden gems. The hospice encourages donations of quality items to support its cause.
