Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice has unveiled a new shop in Portadown, High Street Mall and is already inviting local people to make 2026 a year of purpose, by calling out for high-quality pre-loved donations and new volunteers to support the store.

 VIP attendees included the Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Alderman Stephen Moutray, who cut the ribbon to officially open the store, and international footballer Gerry Armstrong, who is an NI Hospice Ambassador. 

Candace McPherson, Shop Manager at the Portadown Children’s Hospice store, said: “This new shop is among the largest in our retail network and helps put us right at the heart of the local community here, which is vitally important as Hospice relies on community support for the majority of its funding. 

“Our central location also makes it easy for local supporters to visit, whether to shop, donate, or simply stop by. Every visit helps us raise vital funds for local families who rely on our specialist palliative care services. 

“Clearing out your wardrobe and donating items you no longer wear can feel incredibly freeing – and knowing those items will help fund the care for a child with complex needs makes it even more meaningful.” 

“In the past year alone, 333 families benefited from Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice services, with most children receiving years of short breaks and ongoing support rather than end-of-life care. In addition, 6,228 hours of Hospice at Home care were delivered to 52 children, giving families vital respite and support when they needed it most.” 

From clothing and accessories to homeware and books, donated items sold in NI Children’s Hospice shops help fund specialist palliative care for local babies, infants and children and their families. Donors are also encouraged to maximise the value of their generosity by signing up for Gift Aid, which allows NI Children’s Hospice to claim an extra 25p for every £1 raised – at no extra cost to the donor. 

The timing of the shop’s opening also highlights the charity’s ‘Time Well Spent’ volunteering initiative, as 2026 is the UN International Volunteer Year, celebrating the impact of giving time. Whether it’s a few hours a week or a more regular commitment, volunteers play a vital role in keeping Children’s Hospice shops welcoming, vibrant and community-focused. 

“Volunteering your time is very rewarding. Shop volunteers in other areas tell us it gives them purpose, confidence and connection. It really is Time Well Spent,” added the shop’s manager Candace McPherson. 

To learn more about donating at the new Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice shop in Portadown, or to explore volunteering opportunities in-store, drop in at Unit 31-32 High Street Mall, High Street, Portadown BT62 1HX.

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