By Gabriel McMoreland

Photos by Sheryland Neal

SHAWNA HAMMOND HELPS A CUSTOMER AT THE EAST END COMMUNITY THRIFT STORE.

 The Thomas Merton Center congratulates Shawna Hammond and all the Thrifty volunteers on another year of helping community members by giving away more than $10,000 in clothing and household items through their free voucher program for customers in need. At Thrifty’s low prices, $10,000 adds up to a generous mountain of winter coats, back to school backpacks, kitchen supplies, and stylish clothing choices. The voucher program helps meet community needs while giving customers the decision about what they actually want from the store. Thanks for another year of connections and dedication. 

Since 1993, Thrifty has distributed thousands of free shopping vouchers through local shelters and social service agencies. More than $8000 in vouchers were redeemed annually in 2017 and 2018. 

Agencies that wish to sponsor vouchers can contact Thrifty manager Shawna Hammond at ShawnaPGH@aol.com to find out more about participating in the program. 

Shawna Hammond describes the voucher program as integral to the store and says, “It’s heartwarming for the volunteers and myself to interact with the customers and give them encouragement when they share their hardships with us.

1. LORRAINE YASHIN, SHAWNA HAMMOND, AND JANNET MYLES AT THE CHECK OUT COUNTER; 2. JANNET MILES DISPLAYS JEWELRY ON SALE; 3. LORRAINE YASHIN SORTS THROUGH SALE CLOTHING; 4. MANAGER SHAWNA HAMMOND KEEPING THE BOOKS; 5. VALENTINES DAY INSPIRED WINDOW DISPLAY; 6. VOLUNTEER SORTS MERCHANDISE BEFORE IT GOES TO THE SALES FLOOR; 7. THRIFTY STORE FRONT FROM PENN AVE. 

Gabriel McMorland is director of the Thomas Merton Center and a longtime Thrifty customer. 

NewPeople Newspaper VOL. 50 No. 2. March, 2020. All rights reserved.