Last fall, when CHD’s Adult Mental Health-Holyoke program came up with the idea of opening a thrift store at its site at 494 Appleton Street, Rory, a client who now works there, wasn’t surprised at the large amount of merchandise that was donated.

“CHD is like a close-knit family,” he said. “When we have something like this, everyone pitches in.”

Christina, another client-employee, agreed. “I knew we’d end up with a lot, but I’m surprised at the variety of different things,” she said. “I love this. It’s a good idea because not only does it give us jobs, but it can help other people in the program who may not be able to get around to stores because of anxiety or whatever. It’s a supportive environment here—a welcoming place that’s not too busy or crowded.”

Plus, the profits go back into the program.

On July 24, Rory and Chrstina took a pair of giant scissors and cut the ribbon (photo 1) during the grand opening of the “Last Chance Thrift Store,” an event that included refreshments. The store is open weekdays, 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. and is staffed with clients who have received training. “Everyone working here has a work history and this is a good place for them to sharpen and underscore their skills—both hard and soft skills—that they’ve developed,” said AMH-Holyoke Assistant Director Jason Haas.

AMH-Holyoke Senior Program Director Melissa Porter said the idea came about after discussing the need for more jobs for the people her program serves. “We had additional office space and we decided to utilize it this way,” she said. The inventory is an eclectic mix of clothing, jewelry, glassware, dishware, purses, and other household other items. It offers what a thrift store typically has, from the stylish (a Michael Kors handbag) to the sporty (a Patriots sweatshirt) to the funky (snakeskin cowboy boots). “We’ll change out our merchandise at the end of the summer and move into more winter clothing,” she said.

Those interested in donating items should contact Haas at [email protected] or 413-420-2355.