New thrift store will benefit customers, hospital
Don't know what to do with quality, used items? There's a new store opening in downtown Marion that can take those items, resell them, and the profits will benefit St. Luke Hospital and the county hospital district.
It's a thrift store that will be owned and operated by St. Luke Hospital Auxiliary and will be called St. Luke Hospital Auxiliary Shoppe.
Items available for sale will be quality and affordable used items that are donated to the agency.
"Customers will benefit because the store will provide quality items," said Judy Reno, auxiliary president. All proceeds will be given back to the hospital district.
The idea is not a new one, said Reno.
"Other auxiliaries have thrift shops and do very well," said Reno. If the Marion thrift shop is like others she anticipates the auxiliary being able to raise five to 10 times more than the amount raised now.
"Kingman County has netted $35,000 per year," said Reno.
The auxiliary already has received numerous donations of items since an article about the shop were revealed at Marion Kiwanis Club meeting and reported in the Marion County Record.
"The outpouring already of items and volunteers has been fantabulous," said Reno.
A cash register and carpentry services were donated as a result, said Reno. She's confident the community will continue to support the endeavor.
The auxiliary was organized in the 1970s. During the past 30 years, the group has held numerous fund-raisers and given more than $80,000 back to the district.
Most recently, the auxiliary purchased new furniture and carpet for the hospital waiting room.
Donations will be accepted from 1 to 5 p.m. Friday, and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday at 404 E. Main, Marion. Household items, toys, books, clothing, and furniture are especially needed, said Reno.
The group is hoping to open for business Dec. 30 for an "after Christmas sale."
Regular hours will be 1 to 5 p.m. Fridays and 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays. Donations may be dropped off at the store Monday mornings.
"This won't be a rummage sale," said Reno, "but a thrift store with quality merchandise."
The best part, Reno said, is the proceeds will stay local and benefit Marion County Hospital District #1.
Call Reno at (620) 382-8441 for more information.
