Thrift shop gives back, saves money

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Jason Barebo
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
Shopping can be a frustrating and expensive venture. 

Having to drive out of town only to find that what you are looking for is out of your price range can be a waste of time and gas. 

The Whiteman Thrift Shop offers an alternative to the disappointment and frustration often associated with shopping. 

The thrift shop is "a volunteer team coming together in fun and fellowship to provide quality merchandise at bargain prices," said Pat Spotten, Whiteman Thrift Shop manager. 

The thrift shop, owned and operated by the Whiteman Officer's and Enlisted Spouses' clubs, works off of consignments and donations from the base populace, to include active duty, Reserve and retirees. 

People may consign 10 items each day the shop is open, five of which may be clothing, Mrs. Spotten said. People PCSing may consign up to 30 items. Consignments are accepted Tuesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. - noon. 

Shoppers can find almost anything they are looking for at the thrift shop, said Johnna Scobey, WESC thrift shop chairperson. 

Furniture, electronics and clothing, to include uniform items, are just some of the things customers can purchase and consign. The thrift shop does not accept large appliances, undergarments or anything that contains liquid. Consigned items must be clean and in good working order. 

Profits from sales are split between the WOSC and WESC charitable accounts. Twenty-five percent of the profits are used to fund the thrift shop. 

The majority of the money is used for scholarships and donations to organizations and families in emergency situations. 

Consigners may receive money for an item once it has been sold. They will be asked to set a price and will receive 75 percent of the set price, the rest going to the thrift shop. 

"We have given money to families in the local community who have been affected by tornado, fire and other tragedies," Mrs. Spotten said. 

Last year, the thrift shop donated $25,500 to charities and scholarships, Mrs. Spotten said. 

"It's a great organization to come have fun and enjoy meeting new people and at the same time raise money for a good cause," Mrs. Spotten added. 

The thrift shop is open Tuesdays and Fridays 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. 

For more information, call the Whiteman Thrift Shop at 563-3910.