A new opportunity for shopping is opening in February along Northlake Blvd. It is a spot where browsers and buyers can not only find well-maintained home goods, but also support area foster children. Wellington resident Tom Livoti is the store’s general manager.
Treasures for Hope charity store is the newest venture by child welfare organization Place of Hope, which allows retail enthusiasts to find a bargain and help youth who need assistance during some of the most crucial stages of their lives. In addition to shoppers, Treasures for Hope welcomes those who have home furnishings they would like to donate to a worthy cause. Located at 3540 Northlake Blvd., the charity store is within walking distance of Villages of Hope, Place of Hope’s sister organization, which serves young adults who have aged out of foster care.
The charity store has already accepted several estate donations from Frenchmen’s Creek, Ballen Isles, PGA National, Admiral’s Cove and the Town of Palm Beach. The main space is filled with like-new sofas, cabinets, armoires, wall hangings, dining room sets, mirrors and tables. A smaller boutique area features name-brand clothing, accessories and jewelry.
Livoti views the charity store as a community resource for donors, shoppers and the youth under Place of Hope/Villages of Hope’s care. “The first use of donations is to fill the needs of our children,” Livoti said. “If someone needs a bed or a dresser, we provide them first selection of our donations, which directly saves on expenses. The store will also provide job training experience for our older kids, allow our youth mentoring relationships with craftsmen who work in the furniture industry and give us opportunities to share the mission of Place of Hope with the public.”
Treasures for Hope joins other area stores that support nonprofit organizations, including Goodwill boutiques, the Give and the Church Mouse. Assistant Manager Brittany McInnis said Treasures for Hope is distinguishing itself among shoppers and donors with its cause and mission.
“The proceeds of the charity store will directly support the mission of Place of Hope,” McInnis said. “In the last decade, Place of Hope has grown from one family cottage to six cottages, the Seven Stars Emergency Shelter for boys, Joann’s Cottage for pregnant teens, Villages of Hope for emancipated foster youth, and Homes of Hope for foster care and adoption placement and support. We welcome the community to help us help our youth.”
For more information, call Treasures for Hope at (561) 691-8881 or visit www.treasuresforhope.org.
Above: Tom Livoti and Brittany McInnis.
