Child Concern's retail shop

To the Editor:

I have been asked for months to write an article about the Child Concern retail shop. I asked for some information about the shop. This is sure a lot of information about the shop. I shall try to just write about the main things.

I had no idea that one had to have the Office of the Secretary of State involved in getting this business started. James C. Kirkpatrick was the Secretary of State in 1975. Was started in 1975 by a group of mostly ladies of the First United Methodist Church. Of course was a non-profit organization. Was started to help and try to prevent children from being abused and neglected.

Now what the shop does is pay electric bills, and give boxes and boxes of food away. Some of the food is donated. Some purchased from the Southeast Missouri Food Bank. Also give clothing to children. Must have children under 18 for the shop to help.

The shop started in a building near the Methodist Church on Nooney St. Then was in different building in downtown. Then in 1993 moved to the present location, 818 Highway 53. Kitty Britton and Lela Fisk have been long time volunteers. Kitty worked for over 30 years. Many weeks worked six days a week. Has retired now. Lela over 15 years. And is still volunteering. By the way all who there are volunteers. No paid workers!! A young man recently told me he thought we were crazy to volunteer, working like we do. I told him he should do some volunteering, would be good for him.

There is really very good cloths for everyone for sale in the shop. Always clean. One volunteer makes sure there is no buttons missing, nor rips that need to be sewn up. Often takes a garment home and zips it up on her sewing machine. Also shoes and shoes. Canvas shoes are washed before being put out for sale. Lots and lots of beautiful baby clothes. Some like almost new. Books, books and huge stacks of magazines. Lots of bed linen and bed pillows. Also have some china and glasses.

Never have many cooking pans. Sometimes pictures and frames. Lots of movies and tapes. I do not know how good these things are. A good selection of knick-knacks. I call these dust catchers. Sometimes have easy chairs, sofas and bed mattresses. Also baby beds. The sofa, mattress and chairs, are always sold in a hurry.

Even if one does not want to purchase anything, should come by during the holidays and see the beautiful Christmas room. Last year I think there was four or more Christmas trees and all. (For about half the price one would pay would pay at the super market). Take the tree home and then all ready for Christmas. And that is what people did.

This has been written by Irma Houts Epps. Who has been working at the shop for about 10 years. I think!!

Irma Houts Epps

Poplar Bluff, Mo