Jacks help is on its way

St John's Wipers incorporated, trading as Jacks Rags is run by a group of volunteers to raise funds for local and some national charitable organisations.

Donations have been made to the Albury Wodonga Cancer Centre, St Stephen's Xmas lunch for the lonely and needy, Carevan, Trusting Kids, the Royal Flying Doctor and many more.

The main purposes are to ensure existing community programs continue, assist with new community programs and offer support to the needy and marginalised within our society.

No funds are provided to individuals but the business does help to fund other charitable organisations that are better equipped to distribute funds.

Jacks Rags purchases linen, towels and hospital blankets from a local laundry, plus any unsaleable clothing from opportunity shops.

These items are then sorted by type of material, cut to size and packed in 10 kg pressed blocks or loose packed in 20 kg sacks. The products are used by a wide range of industries from cabinet makers, garages, engineering shops and foundries.

Some customers request a blend of rags and these are made to order, but should a customer not be entirely happy a refund or replacement product is offered.

As a not for profit organisation, opportunities are there for people working for the dole to join the team for up to six months.

This is not seen as a free labour source but as a way of getting people to turn up to work, where they can also learn and develop interpersonal skills, in particular team skills. Jacks Rags has assisted in placing several of the members into full-time employment.

During emergencies Jacks Rags supply blankets, sheets, pillow cases and towels to emergency relief centres.

Jacks Rags manager, Jim Hislop

"We strive for constant improvement both in our people and in our production techniques. The most recent review has allowed us to introduce seven new products and reduce the price of 17," Jacks Rags manager Jim Hislop said.

"We must be competitive in the marketplace, our selling price, quality control, short delivery lead time and product presentation ensures we are competitive.

"Our aim is to become the rag supplier of choice for the North East and Southern Riverina."

"Like many volunteer organisations the management committee are getting on in years and we are always on the lookout for the next generation of committed volunteers to take us forward," Jim adds.

Potential volunteers are welcome to visit the premises as 2/3 Mores Crt Wodonga to view the operation and maybe join the association.