The Family Promise Thrift Store opened four years ago and continues to grow today by giving back to the shelter that inspired its creation.
To accommodate the influx of donations that the community brought into the shelter and to better use the space in our building, it was decided that a thrift store would be the best way to sell these items to create more income for the shelter. With each sale that the thrift store makes, money is given to the shelter to serve up to five families that we house at a time.
The thrift store also allows us to serve our neighbor’s need-to-need. Every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., we offer one free outfit to those interested. There are also several free bins in the front of the store- one offering food, one offering clothes, and one offering toiletries and other necessities.
Each day, efforts are made to recognize the needs of anyone who walks through the door. A simple conversation is one of the most essential things the thrift store sometimes provides. People often come in wanting to share their stories, and the store allows us to interact and show these people that they matter to others. Additionally, we can share our purpose with those who did not know of us before, fostering relationships that serve the community.
Shelley Morgan, our thrift store manager, marvels at how customers feel welcomed, “The two most important things that the thrift store does is support the families in the shelter and help to form a sense of community for the people who live in the area.”
A lot of people who come through the store have become familiar faces. They want to discuss their children, successes, troubles, and lives. Family Promise aims to be a place that lends a welcoming hand and an open heart.
