Find us in the former Pine Lake School (across from Hodag Country Fest grounds). Nativity of Our Lord Parish thrift stores have been an active ministry since 1967. Mabel Mathews and a group of dedicated volunteers opened St. Joe’s Thrift Shop more than 45 years ago. Over the years there have been several husband/wife teams and individuals as managers of the thrift operation. Today approximately 50 volunteers work on a weekly basis to provide this valuable service for our Parish and the Rhinelander community. A “Thrift Store Council” meets monthly to discuss business operations, new ideas and the needs of the volunteers. The council consists of volunteers who work regularly at one of the store locations and have a strong interest in the service provided to our customers. Our stores offer for sale most anything imaginable including: men’s, women’s, children’s and infant’s clothing, toys, books, jewelry, house wares, furniture, appliances, sporting equipment and much more. In addition to selling items at affordable prices our stores honor a “voucher” system. A voucher is a request for items to be given free of charge to persons in exceptional need. The vouchers are issued by Nativity Parish, other churches and agencies in the community as well as the Homeless shelter. Our volunteers find the work of sorting through donated items, pricing, stocking shelves and helping customers an important part of being part of their day. It also provides for companionship and camaraderie for the volunteers as they come together to serve the less fortunate in our community. Our typical volunteer works once or twice a week for 4 to 5 hours. We always welcome new ideas and energy from new volunteers, so please consider sharing your time and talent with our Thrift Store family. Please contact the Parish Office for further information on becoming a volunteer.
