As a volunteer with the Lumby Community Thrift Store, Georgie Hay is often asked why she gives back this way.
“It’s a very good question indeed. Last Thursday a young mother came in, and loaded up on baby and toddler clothes,” she said, adding that she advised the customer to come back the next day, when the store was holding its monthly special on the last Friday of the month: a garbage bag filled with clothes for just $10.
“Then I realized that her babes were way past the point of wearing these sizes, so I questioned her and with teary eyes she explained, ‘there is a young mom in town who at this point in time can’t care for her children and another young mom decided to help out until the mother is capable of properly caring for her little ones.’
“The two babes are 18 months and two years old and came with no clothes or food, so the shopper was purchasing clothes and food to help out. I summoned our manager, Jean, knowing full well what we were going to do.
“The thrifter was encouraged to make sure she has enough clothing, bedding and so on, and I asked about diapers, baby formula and such. An emergency hamper was quickly made up, with everything at no charge. We all had tears, let me tell you. And that, folks, is just one reason why we do what we do and love doing it.”
Hay said the store operates solely on volunteerism and she is proud of all of the volunteers and the commitment they put into the little shop.
“Next time you’re in to browse and shop around our store, please thank our volunteers.”
The store offers a variety of specials throughout the month: Tuesday is $5/grocery bag of clothing and Wednesday remains Seniors Day, offering 50 per cent off most purchases.
“We really are a one-stop shop for Christmas gift giving, including wrapping paper and other essentials to make sure the holiday season is reasonably priced.”
You’ll find the Lumby Community Thrift Store in Arbor Park Mall tucked between Pagoda and Dollar Dollar Store.
The store is open Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 778-473-3003.
