RONCEVERTE, W.Va. (WVDN) – The new WV Helping Hands Thrift Store in Ronceverte is taking significant strides to support the local homeless population, with all proceeds from sales now dedicated to funding their mission. The shop, located at 8706 Seneca Trail S. in Farilea, offers a variety of gently used clothing, household items and furniture, with the aim of providing affordable goods while making a meaningful impact on the community’s homeless population.
The store is focused not only on providing affordable items but also on making a difference in the local area. Every purchase made at WV Helping Hands directly supports efforts to assist the homeless in the area, from providing shelter to offering necessary resources and support services. These funds are going to help the project of opening a single-person residence for 42 displaced individuals, providing single-occupancy rooms.
There will be a strict process for receiving this help, and Amy Hubbard, the program’s Chairman and Founder, wants the community to know that they are “in the process of renovating the old hospital in Ronceverte, a 26,000 sq. ft. building that is going to be turned into residential education. This means it will give first priority to the homeless population, and it will give them a safe place to live while working on vocational, educational and job training. Not just anyone can walk in off the street with our project. We definitely aren’t bussing people in to provide them shelter.”
The WV Helping Hands Thrift Store hopes to play a vital role in the community by offering affordable options for those in need. However, the new initiative takes its community focus a step further. Proceeds from the store are now directly funding local outreach programs, including housing, meals and job training for homeless individuals and families in Greenbrier County. The project has been 4 years in the making according to Hubbard, and she is extremely excited about the new prospect.
“Although each room is not supplied with a kitchen, there will be a commercial kitchen, and we will serve all the meals and snacks. We will also have a culinary certification for any residents interested in learning culinary skills.” Hubbard also has plans to extend the certifications offered in the future to provide more opportunities for vocational education. She finished by saying, “WV Helping Hands is extremely grateful to be working with the city of Ronceverte concerning this project.”
Addressing homelessness is a complex issue that sometimes requires a strong and unique approach. By supporting the thrift store, residents are not only getting great deals but are also helping to provide a pathway out of homelessness for those struggling in the surrounding community.
In addition to its support for the homeless, the WV Helping Hands Thrift Store also offers a volunteer program, where individuals can help sort donations, organize merchandise and assist in various outreach activities.
The WV Helping Hands Thrift Store is incredibly grateful for the support of the local community. Hubbard finds it “heartwarming to see how many people are eager to help, whether by donating goods, volunteering their time or simply shopping at the store. Every little bit helps.”
For those interested in supporting the WV Helping Hands Mission further, monetary donations are always welcome, and the store continues to accept gently used clothing and household goods. Community members can also stay updated on upcoming fundraising events and special promotions by following the thrift store on social media.
The WV Helping Hands Thrift Store is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and all sales make a direct difference in the fight against homelessness in the region.
For more information about the WV Helping Hands Thrift Store or to inquire about volunteer opportunities, visit their social media pages or website.
