The Lord's Warehouse reopens with new wares for season

After a month break, the Lord’s Warehouse Thrift Store at the Longboat Island Chapel opened for business again on Oct. 2. 

People arrived bright and early and formed a line outside the shop 30 minutes before opening. 

Over the month of September, the store closed to rearrange for the season. Entering October, the store is back to its normal hours. The store is open on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“The month we close always feels like the longest month,” said Karen Pashkow, the Monday manager of the store. “We miss everyone so much, so it feels great to be back and open for business."

Photo by Petra Rivera

Lord’s Warehouse collects all clothing, furniture, decorations, paintings, etc. 

Pashkow said that it is the place to find anything that people might need. The proceeds go to funding the chapel, Mount Carmel Resources Center, Stillpoint House of Prayer and Turning Point. 

“In September, we pull out things that have been here too long or are just ready to move on,” said Pashkow. “One of the charities that the church works with is Mount Carmel Resource Center. And they work a lot with the Palmetto Sheriff's Department. There's a program there to help these people that are coming out of jail or homeless people get back on their feet. So for them, we were able to pack up two vans full of stuff during the month of September. It was amazing.”

Photo by Petra Rivera

Pashkow said that her favorite thing about volunteering at the Lord’s Warehouse is the community that has been formed. Most of the volunteers have been working at the shop for multiple years, and regulars come at least once a week in search of new thrift treasures. 

Elaine and Keith Hamilton always stop by the Lord’s Warehouse on their trips to Longboat Key from London. Elaine said that it is such a hidden gem but that it is so worth it to see what they can find. She loves being able to see her favorite volunteers and finding keepsakes to take back home.

The Lord’s Warehouse also has its regular furry friends that visit whenever they can stop by. The Rev. Brock Patterson always brings his dog Pippa for a treat and to say hello to all the customers.

Photo by Petra Rivera

Stopping by the Lord’s Warehouse for a quick thrift trip is never a bad idea. Pashkow said that they can always expect lots of laughter and friendship while treasure hunting at the shop.