We wanted to update you on a change regarding our Thrift Store & Donation Center that will take place over the next few months. The lease for the Thrift Store/Donation Center space on Capital Boulevard expires in May of 2021 and we have made the decision not to renew it. We plan to close the Thrift Store/Donation Center only. The main location where all other operations, programs and services on Hargett Street in downtown Raleigh is not closing.
The Thrift Store/Donation Center served as a specific vocational training opportunity for retail jobs; however, as we continue to refine the New Life Plan, we want a broader perspective to encompass the wide range of unique gifts and abilities of our clients. We’ve learned we need to invest our time, energy and resources into certification and training opportunities for clients in a variety of industries with a variety of employers. Our approach is to empower our clients to complete their education, build skills and receive on-the-job training, eventually leading to a livable wage job. Achieving that goal is key to getting out of homelessness! After much prayer and discussion, we believe that building partnerships with businesses within our community rather than at the Thrift Store will be more beneficial for our clients’ long-term success.
We currently plan to keep the Thrift Store open until May 22nd and we’re working with other non-profits in the area to transition our inventory to support their meaningful work. As you can imagine, there are a lot of details to work through over the next few months, and we thank you for your patience as we tackle those details. Please contact John Luckett, CEO, if you have questions.
Thank you and God bless you for your ongoing support of Raleigh Rescue Mission.
