Thanks to a $20,000 appropriate from the city, Brewton will soon have a new thrift store.
The council approved the grant application Monday, which will provide monies through the city’s historical district incentive grant program.
Compassion for Brewton looks to open the thrift store in the former True Value Hardware store. Pastor Bo Bell said negotiations are ongoing to obtain the site, which was also known as Bobby and Debby’s Down to Earth.
“We’re thrilled to have the opportunity to partner with the city to meet the needs of our community,” Bell said. “It’s always been a part of our vision at Compassion for Brewton to birth a thrift store. Now, we’re one step closer to making that a reality.”
Bell said he hopes the store is operational by February.
“Our vision is to take donations, create a couple, maybe three paying jobs at the thrift store and give vouchers to churches so that if there is anyone in need they can get what they need for free,” he said.
Volunteers are working now on preparations for the new store.
Bell said donation boxes will be located outside the store and outside Compassion of Brewton, which is located on St. Nicholas Avenue. Donations are also being accepted now, he said.