While the Pretty New Thrift Shop in Farmingdale certainly does not have a dwindling customer flow, its selection of donated items has seen more than a 60 percent decline in the past several months.
“We do get people stopping in, but we don’t get the donations that we should be getting,” said store manager, Ida D’Angelis. “That is what we need to keep this store going; donations are the only thing that keeps this store open.”
The thrift shop, located at 238 Main Street, is managed and staffed by 23 dedicated volunteers for Central Nassau Guidance and Counseling Services, Inc., a non-profit organization that provides mental health and substance abuse services to residents of Nassau and Suffolk counties.
Central Nassau has operated the shop since 1973 as a means of providing revenue for the agency’s growing network of community-based programs and services. Recently, the agency has experienced an increase in demand for services. The organization offers a lifeline of hope to those struggling with mental health and substance abuse issues.
“The Pretty New Thrift Shop provides many individuals and families with an opportunity to purchase gently used items at an affordable price” said Barbara Bartell, Central Nassau’s chief executive officer. “For some, that is the only way they can make ends meet in the current economy.”
Donations of gently used clothes, household items, books, decorative items and more are needed at the thrift shop. The volunteers agree, antiques are always the most interesting things donated and are often on display on the glass-encased shelves.
“It’s very interesting to come in, just to see what gets put out on the floor every week,” said Farmingdale resident Mary Solano. “ I love coming here; I find the coolest things here.” Shoppers from West Islip, Hicksville, Deer Park and even as far as Boston often stop by in search of a bargain.
The store is open every day, except Sunday. All donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. To donate items to the Pretty New Thrift Shop, call (516) 420-1394.
