Naples Community Mourns Closure of Original st. Matthew’s House Thrift Store, But Hope Remains wiht New Location
Naples, FL – A beloved fixture of the naples community, the original St. Matthew’s House thrift Store, is closing its doors after decades of service. The store, renowned not just for affordable finds but for its vital role in funding programs for those experiencing hunger, homelessness, and addiction in Southwest Florida, officially ceased operations at its original location this week.However, the mission continues, with a newly expanded store already open nearby.For years, the thrift store has been more than just a retail outlet; it’s been a lifeline. St. Matthew’s house, a non-profit association founded in 1987, provides comprehensive services including emergency shelter, addiction recovery programs, transitional housing, and food distribution. The thrift store’s revenue directly supports these critical initiatives, transforming lives throughout Collier County and beyond.”It’s just the beginning,” says Rachel Jacobson, Store Manager, emphasizing that the closure represents a transition, not an end. “We’ve been able to set and grow from this location.”
The original store, a cornerstone of the Naples resale market, fostered a loyal customer base drawn to its unique offerings and the knowledge that every purchase contributed to a worthy cause. Ann O’Brien, a frequent shopper for over five years, embodies this sentiment.
“I have been coming along with family and friends… for about over five years,” O’Brien shared, describing the store as a place to unearth “treasures.” “My thoughts are to hopefully find furniture, clothes, brick, a bracket, anything we can put in our little apartment.”
But O’Brien’s connection to St. matthew’s House runs deeper than bargain hunting. She recounted a past visit to the organization’s shelter, an experience that profoundly impacted her.
“I visited the shelter years ago,” O’Brien explained. “It was very enlightening, sad, but an excellent, excellent way for women to come out of the abuse.” The experience ignited a desire to contribute, leading her to consistently support the organization through donations and purchases. “I never saw it firsthand before,” she said. “I will continue to help out and donate by purchasing.”
O’Brien’s story highlights the ripple effect of St. Matthew’s House‘s work. The organization served over 350,000 meals and provided shelter to over 800 individuals in 2023 alone, according to their annual report. The thrift store plays a crucial role in funding these services, generating revenue that allows St. Matthew’s House to expand its reach and impact.
The decision to relocate wasn’t taken lightly. Jacobson explained that the new location allows for increased inventory, improved customer flow, and greater visibility. The community’s unwavering support was instrumental in making the transition possible.
“We have a grate community backing us which really believes in our mission and what we do, and they support us, and they’re able to help keep us alive and keep us going and motivated,” Jacobson stated.
O’Brien has already visited the new store, located at 2601 Airport Road South in naples, and expressed her optimism. “We went there last week for the opening… and it was very nice,” she said.”We keep coming back and hope for sales.”
The closure of the original location marks the end of an era, but the spirit of St.Matthew’s House – providing hope and opportunity to those in need – remains firmly intact. As O’Brien aptly put it, the thrift store continues to help people find hope, “one purchase at a time.”
About St. Matthew’s House:
Founded in 1987, St. Matthew’s House is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing life-changing services to individuals and families experiencing hunger, homelessness, and addiction in Southwest florida.For more information, visit https://www.stmatthewshouse.org/.
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