This is an article I wrote for the newspaper and appeared on the front page! The editor said it was the best thing I've written (although I don't think he reads my column) and I should save it for my portfolio if I ever want to get a writing job. I thought it was a little dry myself, but hey, compliments are always appreciated!

Noah’s Ark Clothing Store

A little known clothing store called Noah’s Ark has been in operation in Ripley since May 2009. Located in the basement of the Presbyterian Church, and started with money from the church mission fund and donations from church members, the little store that could has grown to bursting in the last eight months under the direction of Pam Acri and Phil Johnson.

“When we first started,” states Pam, “we took up a small area in the church basement and shared the space with several other groups. We’ve grown so much that we’ve taken over the entire basement now.” The store is full of racks of clothing, carefully sorted by size, for everyone from infants to adult men’s and women’s items. Clothing items were initially donated by Ripley residents only but now come from all over the area. “We’ve had donations from Portland, North East, Fredonia and Buffalo, as well as from Ripley,” Pam went on to explain. “We have items from newborn all the way through XXL adult sizes.”

Volunteers come every second and fourth Saturday to sort and hang clothes and visit with the shoppers. “Approximately 30 families use our store,” says Pam, “so there is obviously a need.” Everyone, regardless of income level, is encouraged to stop by and shop. The store has added such items as bedding, books and toys, and would like to carry a few more household items as well. School supplies are carried in the fall.

Phil and Pam agree that the store should be used by the entire community and surrounding areas. “Bring in clothing you no longer want or need, exchange them for other items. Or just come and shop for what you need,” Phil said. Monetary donations are gratefully accepted, but not required. Money is used to buy items that aren’t readily donated, such as winter long underwear or blankets. Pam requested homemade items as well. “If anyone knits or crochets, we could use hats, mittens, scarves, shawls, anything they make and want to donate.”

Current items needed include: men’s casual clothing, including jeans; clothing for kids of all ages, especially toddler, baby and newborn sizes; maternity clothes; blankets, sheets and other clean, good condition bedding; good condition books, toys, DVDs and toiletries. Donations of all kinds are accepted during hours of operation, noon to 2 p.m. every second and fourth Saturday of the month, and by appointment. Call the church number, 716-736-3042, and leave a message for Phil Johnson. The store can be accessed by using the driveway to the back of the church and entering by the ramp into the basement.