Water Disaster Doesn’t Stop Union Gospel Mission Thrift Shop!

Almost two months after pipes burst on the third floor of Union Gospel Mission’s facility at 701 E. 8^th Street in Sioux Falls, officials are saying “Come on back” to customers and donors of its popular thrift store.

“We had a soft opening last week,” said Eric “Pineapple” Weber, CEO. “This week we are fully operational, and we need volunteers, customers, and donations of household goods and clothing. We’re also seeking part-time paid staff.”

The day after Christmas 2022, water flooded three floors of the ministry, requiring the evacuation of its women’s shelter, and soaking all the thrift store’s clothing inventory. “It took days to dry and bale our thrift store inventory,” said Weber. “All of the clothing is being recycled so nothing is wasted.  Now we need new inventory to keep the store stocked and ready for customers and community assistance.”

Reopening the thrift store allows the mission to provide vital community resources including driver’s licenses, legal services, affordable housing options, and more. UGM community health workers partner together to offer case management for men, women, and families in the community. 

Thrift Store Director Dolly Iron Moccasin affirmed this in her statement last week saying-

We know the need is great because as soon as we opened our doors, we served over 200 guests and community members. We look forward to serving more individuals in need throughout our community and beyond.

Both the thrift store and distribution center are now open Monday through Friday for shopping and to receive donations. We can accept clothing in any condition, including stained, torn, and soiled for recycling. Please label bags and boxes for recycling clearly with “For recycle only.” 

For shopping, donation, and community assistance information, as well as volunteer and career opportunities, just visit Union Gospel Mission (UGM) or call 605-334-6732.

Source: Union Gospel Mission