By Roxy Ekberg
Republican Staff
The newly-formed Wakefield Home and Closet has projected a December 1 opening to the public, announced director Traci Riewer last Wednesday.
The nonprofit secondhand store was created after the closure of the Nearly New and based out of the same location, 303 Main St.
Home and Closet will continue the same missions and offer similar monetary and scholarship donations as able, giving all proceeds back to the community.
“Wakefield needs a store like this, said Riewer. “I want this to be a community store. I want people to feel like they belong here and can help.”
So far, the store has five board members and many volunteers. The Board of Directors consists of Sue VanderVeen, Debbie Borg, Darcie Mackling, Jessie Jacobsen, and Traci Riewer.
Donations are currently accepted. Those interested in volunteering or donating are encouraged to contact Traci Riewer or stay updated with Home and Closet’s FaceBook page.
“We’re having a lot of fun,” said Riewer. “It has to run like a business and you have to trust the people behind the scenes. When it stops being fun, it’s not fulfilling.”
A business class at Wakefield High School taught by Mrs. Timarie Hansen helped create a logo and business cards. Riewer plans to continue to involve students and younger people, “I want to partner with kids to encourage them to give back to their community.”
Store hours were scheduled to allow those working different shifts an opportunity to shop. Home and Closet will be closed on Mondays, Fridays, and Sundays, and open Tuesdays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesdays; and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursdays.