On a recent Sunday, after the 9 a.m. Mass at St. Leo Church in Palmyra, during coffee and rolls, I was able to meet and talk to many of the parishioners including Claretta Royal, Susan Steward, Janet McDonald, Angie Waddle, Maria Waddle, Rachelle Waddle, and Sara Waddle.
During our conversation, I learned that these beautifully-dressed ladies bought their dresses and outfits at St. Louise Gift & Thrift Store. I was even more amazed they actually read this column! I thought it fitting I take their picture and write about it. Besides, I needed something to write about!
Their comments were fit to print. I was told that St. Louise Gift & Thrift Store is a place of beauty, a place they regularly donate to and shop at. They are all impressed at the quality of the clothes and items in the store and know all of the proceeds are used to help poor and needy individuals and families, hence one of the reasons why it is a good place to bring donations to, and shop as well.
In addition, I was informed that they notice all who shop there are treated equally with love and respect. I related that I know men who purchase their suits, sport coats and ties there. Be not fooled though, there are also casual clothes as well as items for the kitchen, and furniture for the rest of the house.
Just yesterday, I gave a tour of St. Louise to a man in his 30s, a man who just moved to Lincoln, and who needs to wear a suit to work daily. Thanks to Mr. Don Stuart, our clothing specialist, he will be shopping for his suits at St. Louise from now on. Don is an amazing man - by just looking at you, he knows your size!
The beauty of St. Louise Gift & Thrift Store is also something that is characteristic of our other thrift stores too; St. Francis in Auburn, St. Joseph in Hastings, and St Isidore the Farmer in Imperial. I would like to thank all of our staff and volunteers for their hard work and for our donors and shoppers.
For those who have never visited any of our four thrift stores, I pray you will be able to someday soon. And please remember, they are great places to bring your donations to and wonderful places to shop. Saints Joseph, Francis, Louise and Isidore the Farmer, pray for us!
