Thursday, April 24, 2008

Thrift Shop opens in new location

Collectibles, dishware and items that are no longer needed are among the many things for sale at the Thrift Shop.

The Thrift Shop opens in its newest location today in Bldg. 630, near the corner of 21st and Caples Road. Extensive remodeling that included a new HVAC system, electrical upgrades, glass entryways, flooring, drop ceilings and an entrance ramp were among the many changes the Thrift Shop was responsible for before moving in.

Going from a 25,000 square foot facility to a 9,100 square foot one has been a challenge according to Jackie Baer, administrative assistant and community liaison for the Thrift Shop. “The DPW, Kira and the Fire Department, were all instrumental in enabling us to meet our goals in an efficient timeline. We could not have done it without their assistance and knowledge.”

The new shopping area consists of an accessible, well-lit large room, neatly arranged in categories; shelves and clothing racks filled with merchandise. There is a children’s section with clothing, toys and books; and consignment area for jewelry and more expensive items. These are all quality items that are no longer needed or wanted by formers owners that are donated or consigned to the store.

The Thrift Shop has existed for 57 years and is run by the Community Committee, a private, non-profit organization not affiliated with Fort Belvoir or the Army. However, the Committee consists of representatives from more than a dozen Fort Belvoir organizations.

While relying on the generosity of the community to exist, the Thrift Shop gave back $96,000 in 2007 funding scholarships and grants. “We keep track of the money here in terms of what good we can accomplish with it. Our main concern is to improve the quality of life for our Soldiers,” said Baer.

Some of the organizations and programs supported by the Thrift Shop include the Van Noy Library, Fort Belvoir USO, Army Community Service programs, Fort Belvoir Child and Youth Services, Fort Belvoir Boy, Girl and Cub Scouts; Fort Belvoir Elementary School, Red Cross, Operation Sugarplum and the EFMP Easter celebration. Because of the renovation costs to the new location, the grants and scholarships will not be possible in 2008.

“We have always been proud of the service we have been able to provide, and we intend to continue that level of service. We may no longer be the largest thrift shop in the military, but we will be the best. Community support in this new location is essential to our existence and success,” said Baer.

The shop is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for sales. In addition it is open the first and third Saturday of each month. The shop accepts consignments from individuals with military identification cards from 9 to 11 a.m.

Items should be clean, usable and in good working order. Mattresses, box springs, grills, propane tanks, computers, large appliances, construction material or food items cannot be
accepted. For further information call 703-360-3160.