By Eileen Buckley
Buffalo, NY – A human service organization that works with the developmentally disabled opened another thrift store Monday. Phoenix Frontier hosted a grand opening for its second Retap store on Kensington Avenue in Buffalo.
The Retap store sells second hand items. And what makes it unique is the store not only assists individuals with disabilities, but also employs them.
A Retap store in North Tonawnada has been in operation for about two years. Phoenix Frontier vice president of business development Pat Murphy says based on that store's success and a need for one in Buffalo a second Retap store has opened.
"We have second hand items. As they say, some peoples garbage is someone else's treasures. That is the truth," Murphy said. "We take donations of clothing, furniture and children's clothing."
Phoenix Frontier is a non-profit organization that works in conjunction with a number of public and private organizations. It trains and places clients in the workforce.
The new Kensington store is located near Bailey Avenue. Five people will help run the new thrift shop. Murphy says a tough economy has pushed up the demand for many used items.
"Beds, bedding and things like that are what some people are seeking," Murphy said. "There is a need out with the way the economy is right now, and we see the need and it is increasing."
Retap accept donations and will even make arrangements to pick up the items. The store serves two purposes -- supplying items to those in need and helping the developmentally disabled become productive members of society.