Calling all thrifty shoppers

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Sandra Welch
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  At Luke Air Force Base there is a place where military personnel can buy items at a bargain price while at the same time helping the base and a variety of charities the proceeds go to.

The thrift shop has reopened for business after being closed for the summer.

"The thrift shop is located in Bldg. 750," said Pudge Hoskins, thrift shop manager. "There are a variety of items on sale such as clothes, household goods, furniture, small appliances and hardware."

While the thrift shop has a multitude of items on their shelves for sale, many may not know that the items on sale come from fellow Thunderbolts.

"Those who bring in items for us to sell benefit since 75 percent of the profit goes back into their pockets," Hoskins said. "They can bring up to 16 items, three of which may be adult clothing or six children's clothing. Afterward we make a contract stating how much the seller wants for each item."

Although the seller can benefit from their items, the remainder of the profit goes to a mixture of charities such as the Luke AFB Officers' Spouses Club Welfare Fund, the Airmen Readiness Center and more.

"I love being a part of the thrift shop since it helps the military and that's what we are here for," Hoskins said.

For one volunteer helping the military is something that was instilled in her early as a girl.

"My father was retired military and so is my husband," said Norma Dawson, thrift shop volunteer, "That's why the number one reason for me to volunteer is to give back to the military. It's also a plus that I work with a great group of people."

The shop is open 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for consignments and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for sales Wednesday and Friday.

To sell items at the shop:
- They must be clean and in good working order
- Clothing must be clean, pressed and on hangers
- Appliances and small electrical items must be clean and in good working order

Due to the new children's product safety law, the thrift shop can no longer re-sell children's products for children ages 12 and under because of lead content and phthalates (a plastic softener), that has been linked to liver disease and cancer including toys, baby products and baby furniture.

By Arizona law, upholstered furniture and bedding containing hidden stuffing cannot be accepted.

For large items, sellers should call the thrift shop during regular business hours prior to delivering them.

For more information, call (623) 935-5782.