CARNDUFF — On May 19, 2020, Choose Life Ministry took a big risk. They opened a Second Chance Thrift Boutique in Carnduff during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The store celebrated its fifth anniversary on May 20, having survived the risk.
Choose Life Ministry is a faith-based program which provides assistance to women who are struggling with various life-controlling issues such as substance abuse, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self-harm and trauma-related challenges. The program lasts for three months.
The ministry relies on financial support from donors, as well as the proceeds from their boutiques. They can be found in Carnduff, Carlyle, Estevan, Moose Jaw and Fort Qu’Appelle. Their slogan is Treasures Beyond Measure and that’s exactly what you’ll find in each of the stores.
Carnduff’s boutique was unable to celebrate its anniversary May 19 as it was Victoria Day. It took place the following day which, to the consternation of store manager Linda Kimball and her staff, turned out to be a very rainy day.
However, that did not deter the shoppers from coming and celebrating. Close to 80 patrons arrived to take advantage of the deals. The merchandise received discounts ranging from $2 to a 50 per cent discount off their entire purchase. Savings were determined by customers pulling a mystery discount slip from a jar.
The day offered more than just discounts. The first 25 customers received a free box of popcorn and every fifth bargain hunter throughout the day was able to take their pick of a chocolate bar or a cannister of chips.
All purchases entitled the shoppers to enter their name into a draw for various prizes.
Staff members were on hand to work that day. Kimball was joined by co-workers Ashley Bayliss and Elle Anderson. Connie Dyck, the store supervisor, also helped out throughout the day. All sported pink clothing, which is the Choose Life colour.
As Kimball had an opportunity to reflect on the day and her five years managing the store, she said: “I am so thankful for our staff and volunteers, our store supervisor and our customers, as well as all those in and around our community who supply us with their donations.”
Dyck echoed Kimball's sentiments.
“We have been so blessed by Carnduff and the surrounding communities these past five years," said Dyck. "We can’t thank everyone enough for supporting our business/ministry and changing lives in the process.”
