A Rescue MissionThrifty Shopper store opened its doors today in the Westvale Plaza to try to raise money and support for the local needy. This new store contains mainly clothing, but also sells furniture, books, CDs, movies, and kitchen appliances. Store manager Marty Proper, they work to develop a strong community presence as they have at their other locations.
“The customers are really great. We see a lot of repeat customers, which is really wonderful. A lot of them we get to know on a first name bases; they come in ‘Hi, How are you doing’. We know their kids, we know them.”
Proper also adds that the Thrifty Shopper will add new jobs to the area, and will work to employ people from their programs. Rescue Mission C-E-O Alan Thornton reminds us that while the community has been very generous and faithful to the cause, the need is constant. The resources collected at these stores will be distributed back into the community, bringing about visible, local results.
“We want to make sure they understand, every shirt that they buy, every purse, every pair of pants, every set of shoes, every household item, that’s a meal, that’s shelter night, that’s case-management services to help them find employment and receive the support they need to move into their own place and sustain it.”
Thrifty Shoppers have had some success…Thornton estimates net revenue totals nearly four (M) million dollars that goes toward helping the poor and homeless. He adds the stores make up a critical part of Rescue Mission income, with less than 10 percent coming from government aid. In addition to providing food, clothing, and shelter, the Agency offers management services that provide job skills, internships, and employment opportunities for residents. More information can be found online at R-M-Life-Changing-dot-org.