WATSONVILLE — By the time more than a dozen dignitaries participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Watsonville’s newest thrift store Friday, hundreds of people had already packed the building, snapping up bargain-priced clothes, electronics, housewares and other goods.
The long lines at Hope Thrift were not a deterrent for Veronica Perez, who came with her daughter and granddaughters to see what the store had to offer.
“This is amazing,” she said. “This is what shopping is all about.”
Ed Ramirez said he just came to “have a look,” but left with a pair of shoes, a new chair and a few books.
“And, chances are, I’ll be back soon,” he said.
Hope Thrift occupies the 27,000-square-foot building vacated by Orchard Supply Hardware at 1060 South Green Valley Road.
It also serves as an outlet for Hope Craft, which will sell crafts made by clients, and Hope Bikes, which will sell refurbished bicycles.
The store is run by San Jose-based Hope Services, which provides support for people with developmental disabilities. The store will employ 30-35 people, about 15 of which are the organization’s clients.
Watsonville Mayor Lowell Hurst, who said he taught people with developmental delays during his time as a teacher, said the store offers a vital service.
“The job opportunities are most important,” he said. “Here we have an opportunity to earn a living and be a productive member of society.”
Harbor Freight will also take up part of the building.
That 15,000-square-foot store is tentatively scheduled to open on April 10.
The company bills itself as the leading discount tool retailer in the U.S., selling “high-quality tools at ridiculously low prices” in more than 800 stores nationwide.
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Hope Thrift is located at 1060 South Green Valley Road. It is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday. For information, visit hope-thrift.org.
