Leader's new thrift shop to open this spring

By Joan Janzen

LEADER—Happyland Thrift Shop is the new handle for the future home of Leader's new thrift store. The Leader & District Chamber of Commerce reached out to Hawks Agro to ask if they could use one of their buildings that had been unoccupied for quite a few years. Lee Elsasser, a Chamber member, said they are so thankful for Hawks Agro's generosity in letting the Chamber use their building for a non-profit thrift store. The funds generated from the store will go towards contributing to community and economic projects.

Volunteers are hard at work preparing Leader's new Happyland Thrift Shop, which the Leader Chamber of Commerce plans to open in the spring. Photo submitted by Lee Photo Elsasser

"The thrift store will be operated by volunteers and we are starting to get lots of donations coming in," Lee said. Because their space is limited, and for the convenience of volunteers, they ask that all donations be clean and in good condition. They're accepting clothes, household items and furniture, except for mattresses and box springs.

"We put out a call to the community for name ideas for the store, and Happyland Thrift Shop was chosen," Lee explained. "Our community resides in the RM of Happyland, so it's a fun name for the store."

Volunteers are hard at work, and are hoping to open the store to the public in the spring. The store will be open a few days a week and will be a welcome addition to both Leader and surrounding area.