Marple Presbyterian Church’s Thrift Shop: Affordable Treasures

Article and photos by Holly Stupak

Marple Presbyterian Church in Broomall has always been passionate about serving the community and helping neighbors facing some of life’s greatest challenges, from grief and illness to hunger and homelessness. Their most recent ministry project is a Thrift Shop where anyone can stop by to purchase clothing and other items at a deep discount. Marple Newtown High School graduate and longtime member of the church Amy Eckels is the driving force behind the project.

Amy grew up in Broomall and her family has been very involved with the Marple Presbyterian church since she was a young girl. She was looking for a way to support the church that would also benefit the community. “Since the pandemic, many members of the community have been impacted financially,” said Amy. She explained that the Church has also definitely suffered financially with less attendance and that many members still only attend virtually. A frequent “thrifter” herself, she thought the idea of a thrift shop was a win-win. “It’s not only helping people in our community who need to save money, but proceeds from the sales will help keep our church thriving,” she added.

Last year, Amy tested her idea by holding pop-up vendor shops. Around that time, she also noticed one of the rooms in the church was underutilized and she realized they may be able to do something more permanent to support the community. “I pitched the idea of the thrift shop to the church board members as well as Pastor Karen Nelson and everyone was on board,” said Amy.

After a soft opening in December 2022, the shop officially opened for business in January. The shop is staffed by Amy and her family and a few church members and they’re always looking for more volunteers. They spend hours diligently going through the items to get them ready to sell. Come by the shop and you can find anything from furniture and appliances to clothing and collectibles. “Shoppers can find a oneof-a-kind item, discover a collectible or something to hang on a wall,” Amy explained. “People even find things that can be fixed up or even be resold as-is for a profit.” Most of the items are under $5 to make it affordable. Amy welcomes everyone in the community to the Thrift Shop and encourages people to spread the word. “We are constantly getting new inventory,” said Amy. “You never know what you’re going to find. Every trip is a new adventure.”

Since they’ve opened, Amy and her staff have also been able to help many families as well as single and new moms facing hardships. “Thanks to donations, we were able help people in need right in our own community,” said

Amy. “Our goal is to help the community however we can.”

In addition to the Thrift Shop, Marple Presbyterian has several other ministries and partnerships including the Deacon's Medical Lending Closet, hosting Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts, cooking and serving meals at the Life Center of Eastern Delaware County, volunteering with Kids Against Hunger Philadelphia and sponsoring the annual Suicide Prevention 5k hosted by the Delaware County Suicide Prevention & Awareness Task Force. The Thrift Shop is open Monday 10am2pm, Tuesday 10am-3pm and Saturday 10am-4pm. Donations can be dropped at the front office during their office hours (Weekdays, 9am-1pm). Interested in volunteering? Stop by during Thrift Shop hours to see how you can help. For more info. visit www.MarplePres.org. M malvern family photographer seasonal outdoor pictures and studio portraits in one location. pets welcome! holiday sets oct–dec. portraits, headshots, and events www.crissyeverhart.com