Truly Treasures
Community Care’s thrift shop is having its second anniversary. “We are constantly amazed at the items that people donate to the shop,” says Ralph Hall, Chair of Community Care. “There are over 40 volunteers who work in the thrift shop,” continues Hall. “We have great items to sell but our volunteers are truly the real treasures in the thrift shop.”
Established in August of 2001 the thrift shop is a fundraising effort for Community Care for Seniors. All funds raised stay in the County to support the programs that help seniors stay living independently at home. Volunteers work 3 hour shifts and it takes 6-8 volunteers each day to cover the shop. Working diligently the volunteers sort, clean and price the donated items.
“Members of the community have been outstanding,” says Debbie Moynes, executive director. “We receive goods almost every day and the variety of things is great.” The thrift shop is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm and people drop things off at the front and back doors all the time. Pick ups can be arranged if necessary. Marilyn Szoldra, the Community Care staff member who oversees the operation says that “the volunteers will accept anything that is good enough to resell, except motors, mattresses, and baby items that lack the CSA sticker.” Furniture and housewares are the big sellers and the selection of sporting goods, games, craft items and books also sell well.
Community Care’s treasurer, John A. Jackson says “in these days of increasing costs and shrinking funding, the thrift shop has been an important addition to the programmes of Community Care for Seniors. These programmes include a significant fund raising component to meet government funding shortfalls and the thrift shop provides substantial help in this area. But the real thanks goes to our dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly on behalf of seniors in The County.”
To celebrate the second anniversary of this thriving venture, Community Care is holding a special sale. For one day only, on Saturday, August 30 all books are marked 1/2 price and single dishes are 2 for 1. The mystery sale on summer clothing ends August 30th.