St. Joseph Center Thrift Store to Close

Just after the New Year, St. Joseph Center will shutter its thrift store on Lincoln Boulevard known for carrying gently worn designer brands, because of "economic challenges."

"Despite a great deal of work to improve operations over the last few years, we have found it difficult to maintain profitability," the center's Executive Director, Va Lecia Adams, wrote Wednesday in an announcement posted to the shop's Facebook page and Twitter. 

Since 1978, the store's revenue has helped support St. Joseph programs and services, such as a shelter for the chronically homeless; money management education for at-risk, mentally ill adults; and a café and food pantry for the needy. In her announcement, Adams assured the community there's still a "solid base of support in the public and private sector" for St. Joseph's.

"We will continue to fulfill our mission of providing working poor families, as well as homeless men, women and children of all ages, with the inner resources and tools to become productive, stable and self-supporting members of the community," she wrote.

Local thrifters love the store because it carries designer brands and high-end apparel in good condition, according to Yelp reviewers, who have purchased shoes and apparel by Prada, Jimmy Choos, Lululemon and Three Dots.

At 1828 Lincoln Blvd, it will close Jan. 5, according to Adams' announcement. The last day for donation pick-ups is Dec. 14, 2012. Donations may be dropped off at the store until Jan. 4.

Inventory clearance sales are scheduled during regular business hours throughout December. The store will close for Christmas Dec. 25 and 26.

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