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Fruita Thrift Shop Gives Back to Community

by KREX News Room
by Courtney Griffin

Story Created: Sep 12, 2012 at 7:03 PM MDT

Story Updated: Sep 12, 2012 at 7:13 PM MDT

FRUITA, Colo.- A local, and long-standing shop that's been giving back for more than 60 years is continuing to thrive thanks to the help of volunteers.

The Fruita Thrift Shop collects huge amounts of donations and provides to community organizations that need it most.

"A whole lot [of donations], sometimes we get overwhelmed with the donations that we get," said Shirley Gardea, a volunteer of eight years.

The Fruita Thrift Shop is a place that attracts people from both in state and out of state who are searching for unique treasures.

"They stop in the Fruita Thrift Shop and they say it's just the best place in the world," said Ruth Farley, president of the shop.

The nonprofit organization and its 40 volunteers gives back all the money they make to other nonprofit organizations.

"We pay one gentleman who comes in and cleans once a week, and that's the only expense we have for hired help," said Farley.

The shop donates $600 each month to Agape Food Basket, Catholic Outreach, Gray Gourmet, the John McConnell Math and Science Center and RSVP, along with 22 other nonprofits.

The total amount they gave last year was $75,645.

From Sunday until Tuesday the shop is closed while volunteers sort through all the new goodies.

Wednesday is when all the new items come out and a line is formed outside by people waiting for the doors to open.

"I came here 15 minutes before they opened. That way you have first choice of everything," said Sara Hootselle.

The shop is a staple in the community and a place where friends meet.

"We know a lot of customers by name and when they don't show up one week, we're like OK, are they sick or are they OK?" said Gardea.

For a small town, it's a big thrift store that brings an even bigger meaning to many lives.

"It's been a blessing to me. It helps me and it helps the community," said Farley.

They say it's the only thrift store in Fruita and they are continuously looking for volunteers to help move heavy equipment.

The store is located in downtown Fruita next to the roundabout.

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