JOURNEY HOME THRIFT STORE
Just as we were considering what selling some of our houseware items could look like, we received an email from Hartford Foundation for Public Giving inviting us to apply to join a group of nonprofits who are considering a social enterprise opportunity. We were accepted into the program and thanks to their incredible generosity we have been able to create a comprehensive business plan for our new thrift store initiative!
Rest assured our goal is to expand our ability to serve those in need, continuing to provide donated furniture and household items to folks moving out of homelessness at no cost to them. The prospect of expanding our operations will most definitely ensure that our program is adequately funded, especially with the uncertain funding climate in which we currently exist.
What is a Social Enterprise?
A social enterprise is an entrepreneurial opportunity that will: allow us to explore a new earned income venture to help build a stronger, more thrivable organization; will boost revenue AND mission impact; and sustain and extend capacity for good.
The Mission of the Thrift Store
The mission of this endeavor is to empower our community by promoting financial and environmental sustainability, providing affordable goods, creating meaningful job and volunteer opportunities, and funding Journey Home programs that uplift those in need.
Why a Thrift Store
▪ Opportunity to create more sustainable funding during these uncertain times
▪ Expand volunteer experiences beyond furniture moving
▪ Donors have items that they would like to donate, and we want to create another opportunity to say YES
▪ Create a place for the community to shop for reasonably priced items
▪ There is a gap in the thrifting marketplace
Our goal is to raise $176,000 in startup capital to get this project off the ground. We received a $30,000 challenge match grant from the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, and we have until September 17th to raise $30,000. Sponsorship information can be found below.
Journey Home Mission: Our mission is to ensure a home for all.
We believe the most powerful way to do this is collectively - by working together with service providers, elected officials, businesses and local communities to end homelessness in the Capital region of Connecticut. We will build partnerships, advance innovative solutions and achieve enduring, systemic change.