It’s been almost five years since the business plan for Little Sprouts Op Shop and Cafe was first developed. Caitlyn Morgan chats to project officer Jessica Scholar about when the op shop “finally” opened its doors on Pine Avenue earlier this year and the excitement surrounding the cafe now being opened five days a week as of last week. Pictures: Carmel Zaccone and Louise Barker
WHEN you first walk into Little Sprouts Op Shop and Cafe it is easy to see that the staff and volunteers are proud of the little establishment they have developed.
Toddler and babywear line the walls of the store, with the cafe located on the left with plenty of delicious treats on offer.
Project officer Jessica Scholar says while the store has been open for a few months, it’s still a bit of a “hidden gem” in Mildura with many not yet knowing of its existence.
“We often have customers come in and mention they didn’t know we were here but they would definitely be back,” she says.
“While many don’t know we are here, we do have quite a few mothers groups utilising the space.
“It isn’t necessarily a place for the kids to play but a place where mums can come and catch up in a relaxed environment.”
The social enterprise aims to serve as a training site for young mothers who want to learn about retail and hospitality, while also raising funds for not-for-profit organisation Zoe Support, which helps young mothers in their parenting journey and their re-engagement in education.
The smell of freshly baked cakes, slices and biscuits can be smelt from the moment you walk into the shop on a Thursday, with up to five Zoe Support mums spending the day baking for the week ahead.
Mother of one Aliena Scott admits she is always quick to put her name down and hasn’t missed a session yet.
“I love it all, it keeps me distracted and busy,” she says.
“Each week we learn something new, often learning a new way to decorate cakes.”
Aliena joined Zoe Support before the birth of her 22 month old son Kilton.
“It changed my life completely, I am such a different person now to who I was back then,” she says.
“Zoe Support is all about connecting and I love there are so many learning options.”
Joining Aliena in the Little Sprout Op Shop and Cafe kitchen regularly on Thursday is Sunraysia mother Lakisha Clough-Mitton.
“I love cooking and cooking at Little Sprouts has opened up more doors to different training opportunities,” Lakisha says.
“All these new skills are things we can add onto our resumes, which will help with obtaining employment.”
Since joining Zoe Support more than three years ago, Lakisha says there have been endless benefits.
“I have gained a lot more qualifications and skills, I have made friends with a lot of other mums and received a lot of support,” she says.
“At the start it is scary but there is nothing to be scared of when joining Zoe Support.”
While funds raised go to supporting the mothers in Zoe Support, the price of coffee, cakes and the second-hand clothing is also kept low in a bid to helping those in the community.
“The prices range from as little as $1 to $10 for clothing, with the price increasing based on the size,” Jessica says.
“Most people come in only spending $10 but will walk out with five or six items.
“Mildura has one of the highest rates of teen pregnancy in Victoria and it’s tricky for those young mums to afford everything they need, when they are unable to work or even drive so it’s important we keep our prices low and everyone loves a bargain.”
Jessica says since opening the doors in April, the support from the community has been overwhelming.
“The public have been so generous with donations dropped off every day,” she says.
“A lot of what is coming in is brand new, hardly been worn or well looked after and we will only put out clothes that are good quality.”
Little Sprouts Op Shop and Cafe is open Tuesday to Friday 10am to 3pm and Saturday 10am to 1pm.
