Humane Society Thrift Store seeking new digs

Funding and other support are being sought to construct a new facility on the Arkansas Aeroplex for the Blytheville Humane Society Thrift Store.

Nancy Bray, a longtime supporter of the Humane Society, is leading the charge to build a new facility.

For years, the thrift store has operated out of a tiny building next to the Humane Society Shelter on Arizona Street, behind the Sports Complex. The building, which has no heating or air conditioning, has little space, so items can't be displayed for optimal exposure, Bray said.

"I have looked at all types of buildings around town," Bray said.

Ideally, Bray would like to see a new 4,000-square-foot facility constructed in the same area as the shelter. That way, all the operations would remain connected and the shop would benefit from visitors to the Sports Complex.

The thrift store is operated by Clarence "Chris" Christianson and his wife, Pearl, who volunteer their time and talents. Both are 78 years old and intend to continue volunteering for the Humane Society as long as possible, Mr. Christianson said.

"I'm going to keep going (as a volunteer) even if I have to go in a wheelchair," he said.

Pam Ford, president of the Humane Society's board, said several options are being considered to build a new thrift store near the shelter.

"We're now checking into getting materials from other facilities that are being torn down," such as warehouses in the downtown area being affected by new highway construction, she said. If those materials could be donated to the Humane Society, labor would be sought to reconstruct the building near the shelter.

All donations to the Humane Society, whether to the shelter or the thrift store, are tax-deductible, Bray said.

Bray's vision includes a large, two-story facility to allow for plenty of exhibit space as well as a small concession stand.

"I want a front porch with rocking chairs, so folks can sit down and relax and enjoy themselves," she said. She also envisions having a U-shaped building with a courtyard that can serve as a place for shoppers to see animals that are available for adoption and get to know them.

The thrift store has a wide variety of items for sale, including furniture such as tables, lamps, sofas and chairs, golf clubs, dishes and glassware, toys and clothing. There are shelves and shelves full of giftware and collectibles as well.

The Thrift store is open on Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. All proceeds from the sale of items go toward purchasing medications for animals at the shelter.

"The thrift store is very important to us," Ford said. "We want to thank everyone who generously donates items to the thrift store and professionals who donate their time, talents and materials" to keep the shelter running smoothly, Ford said of the board. "We have really been blessed."

For more information on the project, contact Ford at 870-838-5512 or send a tax-deductible donation to the Blytheville Humane Society, P.O. Box 1855, Blytheville, Ark., 72316.

dhilton@blythevillecourier.com