Connie Shertzer, who has served as the general manager of Matthew 25 Thrift Shop for the last seven years, oversees a complete changeover in the store twice a year. "At the end of winter, we do a clean-out," said Shertzer, who completed a changeover and officially reopened in late March. "When spring and summer are over, we do it again."

To aid in the process, Shertzer and 65 volunteers hold two days of half-price sales followed by a "fill-a-bag" event and finally a day when everything in the store is free. "What is left, we give to Unto in Mount Joy," said Shertzer. When everything is gone, donations that have been stockpiled are brought out to restock the shop, which has a small housewares section along with clothing for men; women's clothing in petites, plus, and regular sizes; children's clothing from infant to big boys and girls; and accessories. A section in the back serves as a bookstore and a place to display artwork to be sold.

The purpose of the thrift shop, which was founded more than 20 years ago, is to help fund local organizations such as food pantries, Meals on Wheels programs, and Help the Fight. Funds are given to social service organizations and others that help those in need. "It has to stay in Lancaster County," said Shertzer, who added that the shop has raised and given away $3 million since its inception. The name of the shop, which is run by a seven-member board, is taken from the 25th chapter of the Book of Matthew in the Bible. Shertzer pointed out that the shop is nondenominational.

"In order to make money, you have to have some nice things," said Shertzer, who noted that gently used and new items are accepted at the shop during regular hours, which currently are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Mondays through Saturdays. There are a number of items that cannot be accepted at the shop, including large appliances and large exercise equipment, computers, car seats, records, video tapes, cassettes, and cookbooks.

While items such as housewares and artwork are priced, clothing is only priced if a piece is new. Rack toppers give prices for items such as blouses or pants, and all clothing items are organized by size to make it easier for customers to find what they are looking for. Sales are held when an abundance of a particular item is in stock. "If we have more dresses or blazers, I may have a sale on those for 20% off," explained Shertzer, who noted that prices have not been raised in several years. She added that the shop is frequented by both locals and tourists.

Shertzer said that she asks all volunteers to follow a vision of a shop that is clean and attractive. "I encourage my volunteers to greet and thank people and be kind," she said, "... and to be grateful when (people) bring donations."

More information about the shop may be found by searching for "Matthew 25 Thrift Shop" on Facebook. Readers who have specific questions may call 717-626-4451.