Almost two decades have passed since a group of Dawson County women set up shop in a small basement on the outskirts of town in an effort to collect clothes and food for local individuals in need.
The charity has now grown into a 22,000 square foot community help resource serving more than 300 families each month.
“We have so much support from this community,” said Ken Newell, RIC Rack Thrift Store and Food Pantry director.
Located at the intersection of Hwy. 9 North and Perimeter Road, RIC Rack recently completed a long-needed expansion and now has adequate space to serve the growing community, Newell said
“This expansion we were able to do, really makes the RIC Rack great,” he said. “We just have so many people needing help these days.”
RIC Rack offers clothing in all sizes, as well as household goods, children’s toys, books and furnishings at affordable prices.
“We have about everything you could be looking for,” he said, adding most of the lower level is devoted to furniture and appliances.
Proceeds from sales benefit the food pantry, which is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and distributed more than 12 tons of food to local residents in January.
“We’re seeing a lot more families lately, because families are growing, with kids moving back in with mom and dad because of the economy,” Newell said.
The growing number of residents seeking assistance has increased the need for additional donations and more volunteers.
“For the RIC Rack to continue to flourish and grow, it is important they have people who would like to volunteer some time to help at the store,” said board member Priscilla Taylor. “The area where you would be of service would be merchandizing, front counter work, sorting or pricing clothes,” she said. “You can drop by, check them out and volunteer anytime that fits your schedule.”
The thrift store is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and accepts donations during regular business hours.
All donations should be clean and in good working condition. Furniture donation pickups are available.
For more information, call (706) 265-1371.