TOPEKA (KSNT) — A Topeka nonprofit that has spent the last six years giving back to the community is preparing to close its thrift store, but its mission of helping others will continue.
The Giving Tree is holding a final sale ahead of its closure to the public on Saturday, Nov. 7 with everything in the store marked 50% off.
Founder Lyndsey McKinnon said the decision to close the thrift store was not easy, but the community’s support during the final sale has been encouraging.
“Doing this closing sale is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do,” McKinnon said. “But this morning there was a line all the way to the end of the building. And just to see the support from Topeka is heartwarming and really appreciated.”
McKinnon said rising operating costs have made it difficult for the store to remain open. However, she said The Giving Tree’s partnerships with local organizations will continue.
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The nonprofit currently provides about 400 bags of clothing each week to the Topeka Rescue Mission and hundreds of shoes to Sole Reason. McKinnon said The Giving Tree will also continue supporting local nonprofits and ministries, including organizations that help survivors of domestic violence get back on their feet.
Those efforts include providing household goods, furniture and clothing to people in need.
“That’s what the donations will be for,” McKinnon said.
What’s next for The Giving Tree?
While the thrift store will no longer be open to the public on a regular basis, McKinnon said the organization’s mission and community partnerships will continue. A new business, Giving Tree Auctions, will take over the location, offering online estate sales and auctions.
The Giving Tree also plans to open its doors two days each month during Second Saturday weekends, allowing the nonprofit to maintain a connection with the community it has served for six years.
The final sale continues through Saturday, with all items in the store marked 50% off. You can find The Giving Tree at 3343 SW Topeka Blvd.
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