Spring is in the air as temperatures more than double from the negative temperatures we have had for several days in a row. Many of us take this time to go through our closets and attempt to weed out clothes that we do not wear anymore for various reasons. I am hoping that when this occurs, or when a loved one dies, and we are packing up their clothing or small household items we remember our own parish thrift shop; The Twice Blessed Thrift Shop, located in the parish center. The all-volunteer staff has been very dedicated for the 40 + years that the thrift shop has existed They collaborate with St Vincent de Paul Thrift Shops in providing clothes and household items throughout Worcester County, that may not be needed in the Hopedale-Milford area.
Anytime there has been an emergency need for clothing due to a fire or other emergency needs, individuals and families can “shop” free of charge. When Haitians have come to the US and have been in need of winter clothing the Thrift Shop has helped them out. Over the years the Twice Blessed Thrift Shop has assisted many in need, others who want to live a simpler lifestyle and those who prefer to buy slightly used clothing for personal wear.
I bring this to your attention because sometimes we forget that our parish offers this valuable ministry which helps those in our community who are really in need versus just dropping off clothing in bins in parking lots not knowing what happens to them. I also call your attention to this ministry because we are looking to extend the hours of operation so that people have more access to services. If you would like to volunteer time to this ministry I invite you to contact our Thrift Shop Manager Joyce Konicki, by e-mail at
[email protected], or contact the parish office for further details.
Let’s work together to live the beatitudes. We work together to “feed the hungry” through the Food Pantry, Mustard Seed and the Trinity community suppers; let us also collaborate in “clothing the naked!”