The thrift shop has now received a huge boon - a large facility that allows it to continue its work, now compounded by an economic crisis. "We saw the recession coming about a year before it hit," said Executive Director Kathleen Purcell. "We heard this building had become available, we approached the owner immediately and worked out terms." Purcell said the new thrift shop location opened July 1, at 1039 Armory Road (the former Sears store) on Agape's 13th anniversary. It is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. After a citywide garage sale July 25, the store will be open every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. "Anyone can shop here," she said. "It's not just for the needy. We're not just wheelchair accessible, but downright friendly. Everything sold supports the ministry." With additional parking, huge plate-glass windows and a large showroom, the thrift shop now has room to accommodate its increasing donations. Purcell said when the community heard the thrift shop was moving, they held on to its donations until the doors opened. The thrift shop is driven by a group of dedicated volunteers, she said. "Without them we would not exist - period," she said. In addition to clothing, the thrift shop will take furniture, books, household goods and computers less than five years old. Medical supplies, such as walkers, crutches and other aids, also are accepted. Donations can be brought to the thrift shop location during normal hours of operation or by appointment. The ministry is actively seeking volunteers for three shifts at the thrift shop - day hours from 9:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m.; evening hours from 2-7 p.m.; and Saturday hours from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Volunteers also are being sought for the Wright City and Warrenton food pantries, including drivers and people to stock shelves. Approximately 75 volunteers help support the different facets of the ministry. Purcell is the only paid full-time employee; five others are part-time employees. As Purcell looks back on the many families Agape has served, she credits the volunteers and miracles. Moving day was just one example. "There was a sizable crowd with trucks here when I arrived on moving day," she said. "Up pulled a bus with young people from St. Charles First Assembly of God, Wright City campus. We stuffed the bus full and did two days of work in one. "If you don't believe in miracles, come here!" Plans are to move the Warrenton Food Pantry, business office and charity office to the Armory Road location sometime next spring. The building on Powell Street is for sale. To reach the thrift shop, call 636-377-2272 or visit www.agape-ministry-mo.org. Agape Ministry can be reached by calling 636-456-4645.