STROUDSBURG, MONROE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — A popular thrift shop in the Poconos is relocating after nearly a decade.
28/22 News got a look into the shop and how its sales benefit the Stroudsburg community.
Reminiscing on the good times, inside Zion United Church of Christ in Stroudsburg.
Pastor Gary Barraco shows old photos of how the downstairs space used to be filled, but now it’s filled with treasures, all part of the ‘Miracles Happen Thrift Shoppe.’
“This church has been a part of my life since we moved up here in 1981, and it’s a way to give back because the thrift shop itself supports the church,” explained Tracy Burkhardt, scheduling manager at Miracles Happen Thrift Shoppe.
Weather Alert: heavy rain with possible floodingBurkhardt is one of the volunteers who runs the discount store.
Before settling in on North 8th Street at the church, it was located on Ann Street for 10 years.
The move took months of planning and elbow grease.
“Setting up everything and making sure the dishes are all washed and cleaned, clothes were all tagged, so it's been a lot of work but very enjoyable!” said Linda Bentzoni, manager at Miracles Happen Thrift Shoppe.
Resale shops have grown in popularity across the country. The lower price tags here are drawing in crowds from all over.
“We get them from the New England states and people passing through, but they’ll look up on the thrift shop as to what’s closest to them, so we’re really proud of that,” explained Karen Ezzo, financial manager at Miracles Happen Thrift Shoppe.
Celebrating its official reopening Friday, Pastor Gary says they can’t wait to welcome in all guests, as they work with local nonprofits to help others.
“They might tell me that someone has a need. There might be a fire, and folks have nothing left, so we give them a voucher, and they can come shopping for free. Anything that they need,” said Rev. Gary Barraco, pastor at Zion United Church of Christ.
Friday at 2:30 the grand re-opening ceremony will take place at Zion United Church of Christ on North 8th Street.
The shop is open from 11 to 5 Thursday through Saturday.