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Article by Robert Grice to the Dothan Eagle March 31, 2007
The Ark trift store started out of necessity. Even through we did not ask for clothes and furniture, people began to donate items to us. We began by having periodic yard sales but we soon saw the need to open a store.
The store is now open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. It is staffed by volunteers who have a desire to be a blessing to others. We hope to expand the hoursof operation soon. The mission of the store is to provide clothes for those in need and to sell good clothes, furniture, and appliances at very reasonable prices.
In addition to helping clothe those in need The Ark has a special policy to help those who have had a home fire or have experienced other tragidies. The trift store often provides clothing for those on work release so they can find jobs. We also spend time with them and they help us with various jobs around the building. Many of these men prove to be a real blessing and we trust we are to them.
All of the profits made are put back into the ministry of The Ark. A Christian bookstore with hundreds of books is located in an adjacent room. All books are reasonably priced. We have a mixture of Christian and secular books.
John Woods, one of our volunteers, is an appliance repairman, so we are able to do minor repairs on appliances and sell all appliances after they have been checked out. We need someone to help Lloyd McEntire work on computers, stereos and radios.
There is also a need for several people, who love the Lord, to work in the bookstore so we can make it a separate ministry. It is a wonderful opportunity to make new friends and experience Christian fellowship. Most of the volunterrs work for four hour shifts, one day a week. We would like to expand by adding a new shift from 2 to 6 p.m. especially on Thursday and Friday. Volunteers range in age from their 30's to their 80's. Why sit at home when you can be a blessing to others as well as yourself. We are flexible to let each other off when needed. We want to express our appreciation to all who help. We are thankful for those who continue to give offerings and donate quality items to the thrift store. All gifts are tax deductible.
The Atk is located at 475 West Main Street in Dothan. Call 794-7223 for more details.
The official Thrift Store web page is at:
http://www.dothanark.org/thrift_shop.htm
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