Hangers of Hope, a new thrift store benefitting the Bethesda Health Clinic, celebrated its ribbon cutting on Thursday.
"The most amazing thing is the support people have shown when they know the proceeds go to the clinic," said store manager Jo Beth McCurry. "The donations have come from people who realize there's a need. This is our town, and we're taking care of it."
The Bethesda Health Clinic serves the population of people who are working, but don't have health insurance.
"The economy changes so easily, and we want to have a diversity of income," said Dr. John English, executive director of the nonprofit faith-based clinic. "We're excited about who this store will allow us to help. This has been a two- to three-year project, so it was a long time coming."
Bethesda expects to see more than 20,000 patients next year and has an annual budget of $1.4 million. The thrift store runs on its own budget, English said.
The store sells clothing, books, toys, furniture and household items. Currently, there is a large selection of Christmas decorations.
The store is at 3500 S. Broadway Ave., formerly the address of LifeWay Christian Bookstore before it moved to its new location.
The store is open from 9 a.m. 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 1 to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Donors to the store can drive up to the sides of the building and have an employee take things from their vehicle.