It’s That Time of the Year

It’s time to shop and everyone’s in the hunt for that special bargain. Well, look no more! Tucked away next to Jorge’s Restaurant in Ruidoso Downs you will find Sweet Charity Resale Boutique. They are the ultra cool, fun boutique that offers gently used clothing, toys, antiques, household goods and furniture. If you are looking for something extra special for a relative, friend or neighbor, this is the place.

Sweet Charity carries clothing not only for women but also for men and children. They only sell clean garments free or rips or stains. Several retail stores in the area donate seasonal items, so they also offer a selection of fashionable brand-new items. You’ll be surprised to find lots of new clothes with the tags still attached. Sweet Charity also has weekly specials so if you like our Facebook page, you can stay up to date on the latest details.

When you visit Sweet Charity, you will be treated handsomely by our staff. As small business owners know, finding the right fit with employees can be a challenge. Sweet Charity has been exceptionally fortunate to find two remarkable women. Wellen Chambers and Dora Cofer were baptized by fire (literally) when they started on the job the first week after the Little Bear Fire. During this trying time for the community, Sweet Charity received an enormous amount of donations and redistributed the goods to survivors who had lost everything. Wellen and Dora rolled up their sleeves and displayed amazing compassion and incredible work ethic during this time.

Wellen Chambers hails from Brazil and lived in Roswell prior to coming to Ruidoso. While in Brazil, she worked in the educational system. This being her first experience in retail, she finds working at Sweet Charity rewarding. “At the end of the day, you know proceeds go to a good cause,” she offers. Wellen especially enjoys getting to know the customers, most of whom are locals. Wellen mentioned that, so far, her youngest customer was four years old, so you’re never too young to shop! You can often find Wellen’s husband, James, working alongside her, volunteering his time. They say that when you become part of the HEAL crew, your whole family becomes involved!

Dora Cofer has worked in the retail business many years enjoys being able to give back to the community. She has even gotten her children involved. “I’m very thankful to work here,” she stated “I need them (the support at the Nest) as much as they need me … 100% goes to helping women and families in need.” Dora takes pride in her work and is extremely selective about what is displayed. If something is soiled or extremely worn, it won’t go on a rack but instead will be donated to a community service organization.

Sweet Charity strives to give back to the community which has so graciously contributed to the success of their little store. All revenues directly benefit the women and children at the Nest. These women and children are encouraged to shop after hours at Sweet Charity free of charge for immediate needs. Additionally, they are offered items to help them live successfully on their own. While browsing at Sweet Charity with his mother, one of the children from the Nest spotted a toy but hesitated because he thought money was a barrier. Wellen and Dora said the look on the boy’s face when he got his toy was why they love what they do.

Sweet Charity hours are 10 to 5, Monday thru Saturday. They are located at 26156 U.S. Hwy 70 in Ruidoso Downs, 575-378-0041. Look for the purple VW Bug!

Pictured left to right are Dora Cofer and Wellen Chambers.