The Community Chest in Au Sable Forks now open

AU SABLE FORKS | On April 26, locals of all ages filed into The Community Chest for its opening day. Located on Route 9N, the thrift store was opened by the Au Sable Forks Action Corporation (AFAC), in hopes of raising money to support ALICE (Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed) families in the towns of Black Brook and Jay. On opening day, AFAC saw around $1,600 in sales, all of which will go toward supporting individuals in households who earn above the federal poverty level but still can't afford essentials like housing, food, childcare, healthcare, and transportation, and often don't qualify for public assistance. "And we've been busy ever since," said volunteer Carrie Plumadore. "We're still trying to get our bearings, obviously, but the community support so far has been absolutely fantastic." The Community Chest is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and on Thursdays from 2 to 7 p.m. The thrift shop offers a wide selection of goodies for people of all ages, including clothing, jewelry, household items, shoes, children's toys, and much more — all kept reasonably priced and affordable. The AFAC is continuing to accept donations, both monetary and physical. Currently, the organization is not accepting donations of air conditioners, bike helmets, expired/recalled items, hazardous materials, incomplete games/puzzles, large fitness equipment, large/unpholstered furniture, mattresses, medical supplies, opened cosmetics, outdated books, pillows, stuffed animals, tires, TVs, VHS tapes, used baby/toddler supplies, and clothing/bedding that is damaged, stained, and soiled. Right now, The Community Chest is run by a devoted team of 15 volunteers, like Plumadore. "I've always thrifted. My mother got me started when we were old enough to go," she shared, expressing that another positive aspect about this shop is that it keeps perfectly good items out of the landfill. "I believe it's a good thing not to be so wasteful." According to Capital One Shopping, thrifting reduces carbon emissions by an average of 25% compared to buying new. It also plays a critical role in reducing the 11.3 million tons of textile waste generated annually in the United States, which accounts for 7.7% of all landfill waste. Secondhand shopping offers a practical way to reduce waste. By encouraging people to buy pre-owned items, thrift stores reduce the demand for new products, lower carbon footprints, and conserve natural resources. "This is a very multi-faceted endeavor," said Lynn LaDieu in a previous interview. "Not only is it helping ALICE families in the community and helping other locals by keeping prices low, but it is also helping the environment and helping to bring revitalization back to downtown." For more information about The Community Chest, check out its Facebook page, call 518-647-0035, or email afaccommunitychest@gmail.com. Monetary donations are greatly appreciated, and those interested in volunteering in any capacity should either email afac12912@gmail.com or text 518-569-5100 to request a volunteer form. Paper volunteer forms are also available for pickup at the Au Sable Forks Free Library.

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The Community Chest in Au Sable Forks now open

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