Smithfield thrift shop provides a place to work for people with disabilities

After five years of collecting donations, Something Special Thrift Shop opened its doors in Smithfield in mid-March.

The store at 302 Main St. is an outreach project of Hands & Hearts, a nonprofit that serves adults with intellectual and other disabilities. Formed in 2017 as an auxiliary program of Trinity United Methodist Church in Smithfield, its mission is to provide creative opportunities, fellowship and meaningful work.

The first two goals were met weekly at the group’s Wednesday activity-based gatherings, but the work aspect was yet to be fulfilled.

So when Kristin Wilda, Hands & Hearts director, learned that an approximate 450-square-foot space was available in town, she knew she had found the perfect place to finally make the thrift shop a reality.

“A thrift shop offers the opportunity for a variety of skills to be practiced and it is an affordable business venture to launch,” Wilda said.

Pam Staha, a volunteer with both Hands & Hearts and Something Special, said nine program members work in the store doing various tasks such as cleaning items and setting up displays.

Although it is small, the bright and sunny space has two showrooms and a sorting room/employee break room.

Open four days a week Thursday through Sunday, Something Special’s inventory includes children’s clothing and books, toys, knickknacks, glassware, pictures, jewelry and furniture.

Staha said they accept donations of all kinds except adult clothing, shoes and books.

Howard Meissel’s 28-year-old daughter, Austin, works in the store and said she enjoys being involved in the business and a part of the larger community.

“Most of us take it for granted that we can go to work and hang out with friends in the breakroom to eat lunch; this is a new and totally exciting concept to the Hands & Hearts members,” Wilda said.

Sandra J. Pennecke, 757-652-5836, sandra.pennecke@insidebiz.com