Care and Share Thrift Store in Seven Stars, Pennsylvania

This is the best example of what a thrift store should be. Located in the scenic, rolling hills of Juniata County, the Care and Share Thrift Store is a favorite of mine. I openly advocate thrift store organizations. The simple goodwill of its people is hard to find nowadays. I take pleasure in the fact that this group of people freely gives to strangers, with no strings attached. This particular organization is truly not for profit, in that prices are not enough to cover their expenses, however they are supported by the church.

Some thrift store organizations seem to have forgotten the not-for-profit ideal. That is not the case at the Care and Share Thrift Store. Items are priced very reasonably. Keep in mind these are donated, used items. Thrift stores run their stores with items that are obtained at no cost to them. Second hand items should not cost more than half of retail, maybe not even a third. Some thrift stores that I have frequented seem to ask for more than they should. I have seen items that cost the same as retail. I actually bought a club card at one thrift store, so that I could get a weekly, special discount. I could easily spend fifty dollars on children's clothing, blue jeans, toys, and books at this store. The prices were more than what you might see at your typical neighborhood yard sale. In any case, it was still a real bargain for me (I have five children), but was I supporting a truly not-for-profit organization? I pose the question because I wanted to support a genuinely non-profit, charitable organization. As the prices continued to rise over the last year, I decided not to visit that store very often, anymore. My new favorite is a short distance from my home, and a beautiful ride in the country.

Shelby Trego, who runs the store, has greeted me with a warm smile every time I visited the store. She truly makes everyone feel welcome. Prices are very reasonable and you will see many free items as well. Connie Pierce is the coordinator. Although I have never met Connie, her mission speaks volumes for her. The Care and Share Thrift Store is a Turkey Valley Church Ministry. The Care and Share Thrift Store is open: Monday 8am to 8pm, Tuesday 10am to 5pm, Thursday 8am to 8pm, Friday 10am to 5pm and Saturday 10am to 5pm. For more information you can call (717) 589-9959 or, you can visit the store at the Seven Stars location.