Local thrift store benefits Lighthouse Mission

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"I still get people coming in who say, 'We didn't even know you were here,'" Store Manager Stacy Frye said. "We carry everything from household items, dishes, pots, pans, magazines, blankets and sheets. We take almost everything that's in resalable condition."

All profits from the store go to the Lighthouse Mission in Terre Haute, which houses homeless men or married couples. The mission has been in operation since 1890. Currently, it is the home to 100 people, serving an average of 450 meals a day.

The Lighthouse Mission is in partnership with Conner's Center, which houses homeless women, and Crossroads Connection, which houses homeless teenage girls.

"People don't accept the fact that there are homeless people in Brazil," Frye said. "You wouldn't believe the number of people I recognize from this community when I go visit the Lighthouse Mission."

At the store, all men and women's tops are $0.69; pants are $1.39, and jeans are $1.69. Currently, the store has a "Buy 1, Get 1 Free" sale on all men and women's tops.

"Everything's really reasonable and affordable," Frye said.

At the Lighthouse Mission Thrift Store, Brazil, shoes are $1. The store carried many such as clothes, electronics, toys, movies and books, all at affordable prices. The profits of the store go to the Lighthouse Mission in Terre Haute, which houses and feeds the homeless. [Order this photo]

"With the inflating economy that we have, it's hard to make your ends meet," Frye said. "I have four children of my own. My husband and I both work, but we still struggle paycheck to paycheck sometimes. This is a cheaper place to purchase items of need, especially with children who outgrow their clothes so quickly."

The thrift store sells used and new items from holiday decorations to jewelry to perfume.

"It's a win-win situation -- whether you donate or shop with us -- you are helping the community in Brazil, as well as helping the Lighthouse Mission in Terre Haute while getting a good deal."

The store does more than just sell items. Many times, the store donates items to those in need. For families who have dealt with fires or natural disasters, the store donates clothes, shoes, dishes and sometimes furniture.

"About two weeks ago, a gentleman called who had been laid off from work, asking if we had any stoves," Frye said. "He said American Rental had come and taken his stove. We didn't have any stoves at the time, but I asked if he needed a toaster oven or George Foreman grill because we had some of those."

When Frye explained to the man how much the items were, he said he would try to find some money but that his wife's disability check had been lost in the mail because they had moved. Frye told the man to come to the store so they could donate the items to him and his wife.

"That's the awesome part of my job," Frye said. "You can you give to someone who doesn't have something at the time. It's an awesome feeling inside to be able to help them and see that relief in them."

Store hours are Monday-Saturday, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. The store is located at 520 W. National Ave., Brazil. For more information, call the store at 448-9750.