03/25/2025
We are going to miss all those that we have been able to meet, and help over the years. Hard to believe we started in a little 980 square foot space next to Kay Jewelers in November of 2021 because of the kindness of another non-profit. There the diaperbank and the Fretail Store started and began to grow. In April of 2023, were given the opportunity to move to the old Victoria's Secret Store, a store who's secret really was that it was called to a higher purpose. Serving those in need. 3 months of repairs and hard work The Fretail Store and the Capital Area Diaper Bank opened on July 22nd. We had 700 people the first day!
We thank God for all our wonderful Volunteers both New and ones who have been with us for years and years, and all of those who have joined us along the way.. Your hard work, and Faithfulness is so appreciated by all of us in the Fretail Store.
Ellen Wheeler , Karen Fox , Sue Lantz whom we lost last year, who taught us and led the Diaper Bank from the beginning.The 4 original old ladies of the Diaper Bank and all of you Dawn, Cindy, Rachel, Lori and others who have also made all the hard work fun.
The Fretail store which also includes 2 other wondearful non-profits Covering Kids, Willie and Shekina Mitchell, and FootPrints of Michigan Geronimo Lerma, brought together a mixture of essential needs to those in need in our community.
Though it's sad, the management of the mall, didn't like the crowds the store brought, we are sincerely grateful for the opportunity we have had as it serves so many.
Over the years, we have gone through many changes, over the years we have learned, that collaboration with other nonprofits, churches, and businesses, benefits our community.
Where do we go from here?
We will for now contine our 2nd Sunday in Reutter Park Fellowship with our Continuum of Compassion Partners, bringing ministry, prayer, food, and all kids of clothing and other needed items as we have for years. Laundry days, when I can find the right place we can start monthly Free Laundry days. We will continue hoteling people working to get people housing. All of these we will continue to need the communities support to keep them going as you always have.
Our holiday events in collaboration with others will continue, as these are so needed for the families.
Capital Area Diaper Bank next week will be visiting another place to see if we will be a good fit. Beyond that, we wait on God for direction.
Our hope as it is with all we do, others will take the Fretail Store idea will spread every where.
In the meantime, ther are "FreeStores", still one in The Mall called Lillian's, and there are Churches, other outreaches like GAPs in Okemos, Freely Given clothing closets in Mason and others that have freestores to help the people. Each with its own ways, not one likes another which is the beauty of it all.
April the Diaperbank side will remain open until the diapers are gone or, as we prepare to relocate. To those of you that need, us most of you know my number 517-712-0008, if you don't that's what it is.
We thank you all and hope in these next few days you stop by and say hello and give us a hug.
We love you all.
In the meantime how can you help us?
We are looking for sponsors for the Diaper Bank .
Sponsors for the meals we provide in the park monthly. Either those who have a safe serve kitchen that would like to prepare the meal and bring it and serve it if you would like, or donate toward the meal. We plan on 200 a month, because what doesn't go Essential Blessings one of our partners in the park take to the streets to feed others.
Join us and the other Continuum of Compassion Partners who work together for the special holiday events and other activities throught the year.
We love and appreciate all of you and thank you for your continued support.
We also need some volunteers, including men that can help Dave and Mike transport and remove the things out of the store we can save for our next adventure.
Love you all and God Bless you.
The Fretail Store is set to close on March 31st, giving neighbors just a few more chances to get what they need before the doors close for good.
