NCJW thrift store in Lawrence is open

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Marci Last and Lori Grossman co-managers of the National Council of Jewish Women-Peninsula Section thrift store in Lawrence. The NCJW seeks to turn progressive ideals into action, and by applying Jewish values and striving for social justice aim to improve the quality of life for women, children and families.

Continuity is the underpinning of the nonprofit thrift store’s success as the same staff of six has worked there for more than 15 years and a good portion of the volunteers have been there for over 30 years. The store has serviced victims of fires and hurricanes and families who are in need. The store’s proceeds benefit  several organizations. Customers receive a list of those groups. 

With a rotating selection of items, there is something for everyone. Set up by color and presentation the store sells women’s, men’s and children’s clothing, shoes, handbags, furniture, artwork, home decor, housewares, linens, electronics, jewelry and seasonal wares.

While Five Towners patronize the store frequently there those from surrounding communities who are looking to find a bargain or the trendiest clothes and sell them on Poshmark, an online boutique for buying and selling clothes. Last also said the store has a cadre of loyal customers that not only shop for themselves but also people in need. “We have customers ask, ‘What if it doesn’t fit?’ We’ll make it work, you can give it to somebody else.” “We have had customers say their mother has taken them to the store many years ago.” The store even has buyers from thrift stores in Manhattan.

The store at 342 Central Ave. touches people near and far. “It is heartwarming, you’ll come in, you’ll have goose bumps, you’ll touch a lot of people, they can’t even believe it’s a thrift store” Last said. The store has had families in Haiti who have shipped the items to their country. “We can get a call from Far Rockaway that there’s a fire, and they come here for clothes,” Grossman said.

A friendly Cheers-like environment puts customers at ease. “Most of the customers we know on a first-name basis, it’s different from the average store, people are very generous and kind,” Last said.

She said customers were grateful  that the store reopened on June 11. Deemed non-essential during the coronavirus pandemic, the owners were forced to shut down for two months. They quickly adapted and are selling leftover inventory. The store has taken the mandated steps to maintain safety for everyone, including only 10 people in the store at a time. Everyone must wear a mask. The store is cleaned an hour before opening and closing. Clothing racks are used to distance customers. Returns and customers trying on clothing is not allowed. Not all the volunteers feel comfortable to return, Last said.

Because of the substantial uptick of unemployment during the pandemic, Last said the thrift store could see an increase of customers looking to save money. “They know we are here for them and they feel comfortable coming in and buying here,” she said, adding that she thinks that more people are looking for value and are going to patronize thrift stores.

Donations are accepted three days a week compared to five and must be in the building for at least 72 hours before being sold. “We are almost like a family business and assure everyone feels safe in the walls,” Last said.

The store is open Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Donations are taken Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, go to https://www.longislandthriftncjw.com/faqs/ or call (516) 569-0510.