The majority of the staff came from Jobs and Family Services.
“There was quite a bit of excitement. People were stopping by before we were open,” personnel director Jenna Swift said. “We deal with a lot of estates, and we’re very picky about what we put out. We also have a partnership with Macy’s.”
People can drop off donated items and the store has pick-up service for some furniture donations. The store has several hundred customers each week, and is considering a delivery service for furniture items.
What the business does: "Our new store offers families with a limited budget the ability to obtain material needs at a fraction of their normal retail. This is our indirect form of ministry and serves the middle class and today's working poor," Chakeres said.
What makes the business stand out: "Our size and selection. The quality of our items is outstanding. We have a great network of support, including estate liquidators, department stores, retailers, better hotels and many of Dayton's finest homes," Chakeres said.
How the business started: "We were founded approximately 20 years ago by Third Order Franciscans," Chakeres said.
Interesting fact: "Our stores are completely unique. Every day they change in appearance and selection. Our slogan is, every day it's a new store. Customers can find a real treasure or that item that is totally unique. It truly is a treasure hunt," Chakeres said.
Upcoming goals: "Our deep love is for the animals. If God should so bless us, we would love to create the Saint Francis Animal Hospital which, like our stores, would offer the poor or families with limited income a means by which their pets could receive affordable care. It would be a subsidized facility making veterinarian care available to the animals, who so often because of economics are forced to suffer," Chakeres said.
Contact information: Hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday; Phone: 233-4777.
About the Author