The United Methodist Free Store began on January 27, 1999 in a small storefront at 1344 Parsons Avenue. The original vision was to offer a modest, direct service outreach where United Methodist Church members could pass along used clothing and household items to low-income persons.
The Free Store began to grow rapidly and was relocated to 895 South Parsons in December of 2000.
Because of our location on the Southside, we serve a very diverse population. A general glimpse of the store on any day will show that we serve African American, Euro-Americans, African refugees, Hispanic immigrants, and many other marginalized groups.
As a partnership among churches, organizations, businesses, and residents of the community, the Free Store continues to serve as a point of contact for persons in need and a channel for sharing material goods. The largest donors are churches and individuals from the community who contrimbute gently used clothing and household items. We have several business partners such as Pottery Barn, Talbots, Bed Bath and Beyond, and Janeville that contribute new clothing and items they are not able to sell.
In the spirit of being part of a 'co-op", individuals who shop at the Free Store become members, are encouraged to make donations, and are recruited as volunteers. With a philosophy that all is freely received and, therefore, freely passed on, the Free Store offers a contagious opportunity for persons to become both customers and contributors, share kindness, strengthen the sense of community, and feel more significant.
