Brightening Futures: LPHS Expands Thrift
Conveniently located at 1405 Veterans Ave., next to 8th Day Venue and Outdoor Power Sales, the nonprofit Lighthouse Pregnancy & Health Services (LPHS) thrift store offers gently used merchandise at affordable prices, all while supporting at-risk families in the community.
The thrift store embodies LPHS’ core mission: transforming lives by providing resources and support to women, children, and families in need.
Originally opened in 2023 as a small boutique across from Aldi on 8th Street, the store celebrated its move to a larger, more visible location on October 24, 2024.
“When we first opened our doors in June of 2023, our goal was to start small, see how our community would respond, and learn how to run a thrift store,” explained Executive Director Tamela Polanin. “It quickly became clear that we needed more space to accommodate donations and better serve our customers.”
The expanded store now accepts large furniture items and provides a more enjoyable shopping experience. Bright, natural light streams through large windows, illuminating neatly organized aisles filled with clothing, jewelry, decor, housewares, and seasonal displays.
Store Manager Jessica Lotz ensures that the store is constantly refreshed, showcasing new gently-used items and clothing daily.
Donations are the lifeblood of the store. Community members can conveniently drop off items, including gently used clothing, furniture, znd household goods. Volunteers play a crucial role in sorting, organizing, and displaying items, ensuring the store runs smoothly.
This month, LPHS is teaming up with the Fayette County Senior Citizen Center and CEFS’ Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) as part of a Month of Service honoring Martin Luther King Jr. RSVP volunteers will assist by counting donated puzzle pieces to prepare them for resale.
The second floor of the Thrift Store is currently a work-in-progress. A large, expansive space, it serves as a perfect area for volunteers to process donations currently.
Proceeds from the store’s operations directly support LPHS’ work, including free ultrasounds, STI testing and treatment, and a Mobile Medical Unit. The nonprofit equips women with knowledge to make informed decisions while meeting practical needs during and after pregnancy.
For more information about donating items or volunteering, call (618) 699-5677. Or visit the LPHS Thrift Store today and see firsthand how your donations can help brighten lives. Turn something you no longer need into a meaningful contribution to women, children, and families in our community!