By Geena Monahan—For the North Star Reporter
The basement of a local church that has stood for more than three centuries has taken on a new life over the past year, transforming into a small but bustling center of community giving.
Since opening in September 2024, The Second Serving Thrift Shop inside First Congregational Church of North Attleborough has become a modern answer to fundraising challenges, powering the church’s mission efforts while also attracting a loyal community of shoppers and volunteers.
At the heart of the effort is church member Kris Collins, who has spent the past year turning a room used for leftover items into a three-room hub of generosity.
“I come from a retail background – I like making things pretty,” said Collins. “It was amazing to see what some soap, water and a nice little room could do to make an item sell.”
The idea of a thrift shop had floated around the congregation for years. Membership had dwindled, volunteers were aging, and longstanding fundraisers like yard sales – once held five or six times a year – became too physically demanding.
“Thrifting is kind of a thing now,” said Collins. “People were willing to give it a try.”
Half of the shop’s proceeds support the church, while the other half goes towards charitable projects organized by Missions Ministry, a small but active group of volunteers within the church.
Each December, the Ministry assembles stockings for individuals experiencing homelessness, collecting items such as mylar blankets, chapstick, socks, crackers and toothbrushes. What started with 20 stockings has grown to more than 50 expected this year.
The group is also preparing for its “Baby Shower for Baby Jesus,” where nonperishable items like diapers, wipes, onesies, and toys will be donated to New Hope, Inc., a nonprofit that supports survivors of domestic and sexual violence.
Recently, Missions Ministry put together Thanksgiving side dish to-go boxes filled with stuffing, cranberry sauce, and gravy to deliver to families in need. Volunteers also brought underwear, socks and toothbrushes to a women’s sober living home in Attleboro.
“We kind of see what the need is and go from there,” said Collins. “If we hear from an organization in need, we lean the charity towards that.”
Collins credits her fellow volunteers – Cindi, Tara, Pat, Sandy, Dolores and DeAnne – not only for their hard work, but also for creating a welcoming, purposeful group that has forged lasting friendships.
“It’s two-fold; we help the community, but in return it helps us stay connected,” she said. “It’s become a blessing for some of these older ladies that don’t have a lot going on in their lives. They feel privileged and proud to be part of the group.”
Students from North Attleborough High School have also found a role at the shop, volunteering during the church fair and throughout the year to earn service hours required for graduation.
For Collins, the thrift store has become a personal joy in retirement.
“I love going to thrift shops for the thrill of the hunt,” said Collins. “And I love decorating – I just spent four hours decorating for Christmas. It’s become my passion.”
Customers, too, play a meaningful role. Many have become repeat visitors who not only shop, but donate and spread the word.
“The generosity has been unbelievable,” said Collins. “If someone’s total is $8, they almost always give us a $10 and say ‘Keep the change.’”
The Second Serving Thrift Shop, located at 675 Old Post Road, is open on Wednesday and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon. Prices are intentionally low, with most items ranging from just a few dollars to no more than $20.
Because space is limited, the shop limits what it accepts to mostly smaller household items, select clothing, kitchenware and seasonal decor. Donations can be dropped off during open hours, and first-time visitors are encouraged to stop in and browse. Cash and checks are accepted.
“It helps our church, it helps our community,” said Collins. “It’s a win for everybody.”