Thrift store finally opens to those who love a bargain

Board members and volunteers at the thrift store at Newark Neighbours’ new location in Virgil greeted customers with warm smiles and warm cookies on Monday as over 25 customers entered through the doors for the grand opening.

“We want to be the first here today,” said Rebeca Torres who, with her friends and sister, arrived earlier than the 10 a.m. opening. “We love this store. This is a bigger place. It will bring more people.” As for its new location in Virgil, Torres said, “even if it moves to the moon I will be there.”

“They always have beautiful things, and their prices are so reasonable that it’s silly to go anywhere else,” said St. Catharines resident Joy Leonard.

Newark Neighbours’ food bank opened its doors last week and volunteers have been working hard to prepare the large space in the former Lincoln Interiors building for the thrift store. Items include clothing for men, women and children, kitchen and household items and linens and accessories.

Cindy Grant, chair of the Newark Neighbours board, was excited and experienced “a little bit of opening day jitters.” However, as many shoppers strolled through the clothing racks and kitchen items, Grant noted, hopefully, “that this is an indication of our success in our new store.”

Revenue from the thrift store pays for operational costs and also supplementing food bank items when necessary. Those requiring help from the food bank must register first, and the new space on Niagara Stone Road has room for a separate, private entrance and a quiet office space for those wanting to register.

The food bank opened to the public for the first time in the new location last week. It continues to be open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. Regular thrift store hours are Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., staying open Thursday evenings until 7 p.m. Sunday hours are noon until 4 p.m.

For more information call 905-468-3519.