Shop Localista: Second Time Around Shop at St. Luke's

You know the second you walk into Second Time Around Shop at St. Luke's Church on South Fullerton that you've found a special place. It isn't just the pristine presentation of the new and lightly used items, the decorative displays, or even the fetching price point that catch your attention — though this quaint little thrift shop has all that. What sets this place apart is the cheerful banter and camaraderie that radiates from both volunteers and customers and fills the space with positivity.

Ellen Meriney, the shop director, is quick to redirect any praise received for the store's success directly to her loyal ranks of volunteers. "We have about forty five people in rotation," she says. While that number is impressive, and certainly explains the immaculate organization of the shop, what's really impressive is the number of dollars this little thrift store raised last year: $50,000.

While a portion of that money goes to supporting the charitable efforts of the church, the majority goes to international and local outreach. In short, this place packs a lot of philanthropic punch. "We fill a very real need for low-cost clothing in our community," says Ellen. "In addition to what we sell, we also pass along many donations to other worthy charities — often 20 to 30 bags every month or so. Very little here is thrown away or wasted."

Rose, a longtime customer, comes here as much for the social aspects as for the frugal fashion finds — and to support the charity component. "They work as a team here," she says. "They really get to know their customers, their needs, and their style. That's a rare experience these days — at any store!"

Like Rose, many shoppers come for the personal shopping expertise of Harriette, the woman the shop likes to refer to as their secret retail weapon for her display savvy and fashionista instincts. Harriette, on the other hand, comes for the community of volunteers and customers who have grown to become friends, "I call them the 'Nifty Thrifties'," she says with a laugh. "It really has a great family feel to it and is part of a wonderful church."

In fact many of the volunteers started out as shoppers themselves. "I came here to keep my six children in style on a budget," says Mary, who is now a longtime volunteer, as is her now grown daughter, Laurie. Given that the shop has been thriving and serving the community for about 38 years (the exact number is a question of debate among this lively gaggle) I'm sure they will be adding further generations, too!

If you need a little more than warm and fuzzy incentives to pay this Montclair treasure a visit, you may want to know I spied a Coach bag for $3, designer jeans for $5, a hand-painted Portuguese platter for $12, a London Fog men's trench — with lining — for $30, and perfect Stride Rite girls' boots for $5. Oh — they also run a monthly three-day sale that discounts the ENTIRE store 50 percent off! Come in for a wide array of fashions and finds for all family members as well as seasonal items and home décor.

The hours may be limited, but the potential of what you may find— and what your contributions will benefit— is not!

Second Time Around Shop, 73 South Fullerton Avenue, Montclair (A Ministry of St. Luke's Church) 973-744-2517

Hours of Operation: Wednesday and Thursday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.