Tucked between Jorge’s and Walmart on Hwy 70 sits a surprisingly savvy and sweet local business. Sweet Charity houses a gracious Vintage Department Store complete with special departments for men’s and women’s clothing, furnishings and children’s items.
The layout is arranged much like a traditional department store and is lovingly merchandised by staff and manager Celina De la Garza. Prices are kept low and bargains can be found in shoes, clothing, kitchenware, books leaning to the “thrift store” price range – while the goods are mostly upscale due to the generous contributions from community members who regularly donate.
One wouldn’t guess that this smart little enterprise’s proceeds go to The Nest, Lincoln County’s Shelter for Victims of Domestic Violence. Both Sweet Charity and The Nest are operated by HEAL HELP END ABUSE for LIFE at www.HEAL-INC.org.
Herself a survivor of domestic violence, Celina brings a special understanding and commitment to Sweet Charity. In fact as items are donated, Celina gives “first pick” to the women at The Nest. And the goods are good indeed. Many designer items have original tags on them.
It seems that when considering the purpose of their donations – folks tend to be generous, digging deep into their closets and pulling out gems for Celina to make available for sale. In fact, so many designer items have been donated, Celina created a “designer department” to display the upper brands most of us can’t afford elsewhere.
With a professional background of retail and merchandising Celina brings to Sweet Charity an elegance uncommon in most “used store settings.” When asked if all donations make it to the rack, Celina was gracious to remark that if people are kind enough to donate, she never refuses any items. On the other hand if the items do not fit the themes of Sweet Charity, she sends them to other charitable groups for their beneficial use.
Originally envisioned and established by Debbie Haines-Nix – founding board member of HEAL – and board member Sarah Mayes, nothing goes to waste at Sweet Charity. Celina was tapped to bring her management talents and energy in 2010 and the results are evident. Debbie commented that “although Sarah and I were conceptual authors of Sweet Charity, it was Celina who took the vision to the next level.”
At a recent business gathering, I got so many compliments on my “new” top … I told everyone it came from Sweet Charity for $5! Once it was out… 2 other ladies said they had also purchased gems from Celina’s Sweet Charity.
At Sweet Charity, Giving and Getting are united. And hey, what’s better than getting a “great deal” and at the same time helping others in need?