A local Christian-based thrift store has been a big supporter of Chatham-Kent charitable organizations since opening nearly three years ago.
A $3,000 donation to the Chatham-Kent Women’s Center on Friday marked more than $90,000 the newLIFE Thrift Store has donated to local charities.
“We are thrilled and grateful to give back to the community which has so generously supported us,” said newLIFE chairperson George Flikweert.
He said the store has donated to 21 charities since opening in June 2020, some of which have received multiple donations.
Flikweert said each month a donation has been made to a registered charity within Chatham-Kent, based on that particular month’s sales.
“This is a practice was started on Day 1 and will continue into the future,” he said.
The recipients have included Chatham-Kent Hospice, Children’s Treatment Center of Chatham-Kent, Hope Haven, Indwell, Westover Treatment Center in Thamesville, the Alzheimer’s Society of Chatham-Kent and Chatham Outreach for Hunger.
Flikeweert said the operation of the store, located at 220 Queen St. in Chatham, “is totally dependent on a wonderful team of volunteers” as well as donations from the community.
In addition to providing quality second-hand items at a fair price, he said many items have been saved from going into landfills.
“As a Christian organization, we strive to be good stewards of our resources and land along being kind, compassionate and fair to all those that come into our store,” Flikweert said.
The store also raises funds for the Chatham Christian School, which does not receive any government funding.
Donations can be made during store hours, which are Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4 pm and Saturday 10 am to 4 pm Donations can be dropped off at back of the store or be picked up by calling 519-354-5033