"When you walk into a store like this it is like Christmas every day," said Bev, a customer at a new shop on Maidstone's Main Street.
CC's Second Hand Treasures opened March 17 to an enthusiastic response from the community.
Candace Charlotte Martin has been dreaming and hoping to open a store since 1996. Two years ago she began collecting items from friends and family and storing them at home and in her garage. Her husband Bob has been supportive, she said.
"He is ecstatic now that he doesn't have to hear about it every day," said Martin.
Her daughters Theresa and Selena are also excited to be helping out in the store. The sign in the window states "Where Everyone and Everything Has a Place."
"There is a lot of variety. I hope everyone will have a chance to come in and find a treasure for themselves or for someone else," she said.
The shop offers a little bit of everything including books, movies, clothing, house wares, dishes, sporting equipment and costume jewelry. Some of the clothing is priced per piece but there is also a large section of gently used clothing set out on tables for $5 per bag.
There will be new stock arriving all the time and Martin wants people to know if someone sees something they want or need but they can't afford it they can talk to her.
The dream to open the store started after Martin herself was going through a difficult time 15 years ago and was too proud to ask for help. Someone realized she needed help and helped to find her a job, clothing and food vouchers.
"Since then I've wanted to do this, I don't want anyone to feel the way I did at that time, especially when I looked into the backseat and saw my little daughter," said Martin.
She wants to offer an affordable opportunity to buy nice clothes and items. She is also planning to recycle the profits after expenses back into the community.
Near the till there is a treasure chest where people can discretely provide Martin with the names of people in the community who may need a donation. She also plans to help community groups and put aside some money for Christmas hampers.
The space for the store has been donated by Kassy Payne and Martin is accepting donations of items and clean, gently used clothing. Older clothing will be recycled into rags as she doesn't want anything to go to waste. She is unable to accept large items but has a bulletin board for people to post their ads.
Hours for the store will vary and will be posted on the window or by calling 306-228-8182. The store accepts cash only.
It took a few years to make her dreams a reality but Martin is delighted to welcome people to her new store and offers the advice "Don't ever stop dreaming."
