Karen Downing
A new partnership between the Becker County Food Shelf and the Detroit Lakes Adventist Community Services Thrift Store is helping meet needs that go beyond food.
Last week, staff at the food shelf encountered an elderly man who arrived barefoot in search of groceries. While the pantry could provide food, it lacked the space to stock essentials such as shoes and clothing.
That experience highlighted the importance of a growing collaboration with the thrift store, where clients in need can receive vouchers for essential items at no cost.
Dan Daniels, director of the Adventist Community Services Thrift Store, says the organization accepts a wide range of donations, including clothing, footwear, kitchen supplies, bedding, cookware, and small household items. Items that are too worn are sent to a nonprofit recycling program that supports disabled veterans. Last year alone, nearly 3,900 pounds of clothing were donated through that effort.
As a nonprofit community service center, the thrift store directs all proceeds toward charitable causes, including the Becker County Food Pantry, HIA Hospice of Detroit Lakes, local drug awareness programs, and health and wellness initiatives presented by the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Daniels says the store’s primary mission is to serve the community.
Vouchers are distributed through community organizations, including the Becker County Food Pantry, Lakes Crisis & Resource Center, Mahube-Otwa Community Action Partnership, and First Lutheran Church. Individuals and families can then use those vouchers at the thrift store to receive clothing, shoes, and household necessities.
Community members doing spring cleaning are encouraged to donate extra kitchen supplies, household items, clothing, and footwear. Furniture is accepted on a limited basis.
Donation drop-offs are available Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the thrift store’s location on Richwood Road in Detroit Lakes.
Photos and Story By Karen Downing