Imagine finding that perfect addition to your wardrobe at a fraction of the retail price, all while supporting local charities who make a difference in the Oakville and Halton Region.
Thanks to the volunteers at the May Court Club of Oakville, shoppers can do just that.
Since 1957, the May Court Nearly New Shop has been a prime destination for savvy and cost-conscious shoppers. The Nearly New Shop carries a wide variety of gently used women's clothing, accessories, jewellery, and small household items.
Curious shoppers might even stumble upon designer labels, sharp accessories to boost trendy looks, and high-quality goods for around the house.
Run entirely by a cohort of dedicated volunteers from the May Court Club of Oakville, this consignment store offers more than just great deals — it offers a way to give back to the people in need.
Natalie Smachylo, public relations director with the May Court Club of Oakville, says with the shop’s constantly changing inventory, each visit to the shop promises new treasures to discover.
“From an affordability perspective, the items here are very good quality, and very, very affordable.”
“And the important thing is this,” Smachylo says. “Each dollar raised by sales at the Nearly New Shop translates into money for our programs.”
One of those programs is the May Court Club Scholarship Program.
What is the May Court Club Scholarship Program?
Since 1962, the May Court Club of Oakville has supported youth in attaining their post-secondary education dreams. The Club has awarded over $1.4 million to hundreds of Oakville students.
But the May Court Club’s approach is a little different than other marks-based scholarships.
“What sets this program apart is its focus on financial need, and documented school and community involvement rather than academic marks,” Smachylo says.
The scholarship program has also been set up to support students in each year of their course journey, Smachylo says.
“If you've got a three-year or four-year course, you will receive the scholarship for the full duration of your studies.”
Just a few months ago, Smachylo says, the May Court Club of Oakville dispersed $96,000 to recipients.
Nancy, one of the students who has received past funding through the scholarship, says thanks to the May Court Club’s program, she has been able to graduate as an engineer from the University of Waterloo.
“Thank you once again for really supporting me!,” Nancy said. “I have interacted with your team on many occasions in the past and everyone has been so wonderful and really cares about their recipients from their heart. I am very grateful for your team!”
Another student – Zeus – says the program enabled him to feel financially secure during his four years of studies, eventually landing him employment with Navigator, Inc. and beginning a new chapter in his life.
“I cannot thank May Court enough for its contribution to this journey.” Zeus says, “In future years, when I am more established in my career, I hope to donate to the May Court Club to keep scholarships going for future generations of leaders. In the interim, I want to offer myself as a mentor to any current students.”
But it all begins with a trip to the Nearly New Shop, located at 200 Kerr Street.
“It’s a great place to shop,” Smachylo says, “you just never know what you’re going to find.”
And remember this: shopping at the Nearly New Shop is a win-win. You get well-priced, high-quality items, not to mention helping the environment by choosing to reuse. Plus, 100 per cent of the profits stay within the Oakville and Halton Region, making a huge impact on local needs.
Where can you find May Court Club of Oakville volunteers?
Beyond the Nearly New Shop, the May Court Club's impact on the Halton Region extends to several important community programs.
The May Court Women’s Personal Care Program provides much-needed personal care items to women and children in local shelters – sometimes the victims of abuse or homelessness – who often arrive with little more than the clothes on their backs.
Volunteers purchase and deliver these essentials to three different Halton Region shelters each month, offering a lifeline to those in crisis.
May Court Club of Oakville also actively participates in service placements across the community by connecting groups with its base of volunteers. Whether it's supporting cancer patients at Wellspring Birmingham Gilgan House, dropping in for a visit with residents at Wyndham Manor, or packing nutritious food for children through Food 4 Kids, May Court Club volunteers are making a real difference.
Another May Court Club of Oakville’s initiatives is their work with the local GlobalMedic facility – McAntony’s Menu Food Program. Volunteers pack dry goods such as chickpeas, lentils, and rice into 500g bags to be distributed where needed.
These are all examples of programs the Club has been involved with since 1956. Since then, the May Court Club of Oakville has provided funding to charitable organizations across the Halton Region, supporting startups, capital campaigns, equipment purchases, programs, and other essential initiatives.
Often involved from the outset, the Club has contributed millions to the community over the years. These funds are generated through the profits of the volunteer-run May Court Nearly New Shop and various fundraisers organized by the May Court Club.
Grants Committee Focus
While the Club’s Grants Program will continue to focus on the community’s most vulnerable and support the key sectors of food insecurity, housing and shelter, physical and mental health, and arts and education, organizers say they will be more strategic in giving.
Every year, the Club will identify key sectors for each granting period which reflect the greatest need in our community. The determination of the sector will be based on the findings of an annual environmental scan that includes consultation with community partners.
As community needs change, the sector chosen will change.
May Court Grants Committee Focus for this current year 2023/24: Food insecurity within Halton
Food insecurity impacts all segments of the population including children, families, seniors, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Despite the advantages of living in an affluent area, food insecurity is a persistent and growing issue in the Halton Region, as many households struggle to access sufficient, nutritious food due to economic constraints. This lack of access to food not only impacts physical health but also increases stress on families and contributes to mental health challenges.
Addressing food insecurity requires a coordinated community effort, and organizations like the May Court Club of Oakville play a crucial role by directing resources and support to those most in need. Through initiatives like their Grants Program, the Club is committed to ensuring that no one in the community goes hungry.
By strategically targeting sectors that require the most support, the May Court Club of Oakville continues to play a key role in enhancing the well-being of the region's most vulnerable populations.
How You Can Help
Consider donating or consigning your gently used items to the Nearly New Shop. Donations can be directed to the club’s Scholarship Program or their general account, both of which fund local charities and initiatives.
Your contributions make a real difference, helping the shop continue its legacy of community support.
For more information on how to donate or shop at the Nearly New Shop, visit the May Court Club of Oakville’s website.
Let’s continue to make Oakville a better place, one treasure at a time.