In May of 1919, a group of visionary women founded the Economy Shop, putting out a call for donations of merchandise that could be sold to support the five local charities that existed then.
Their original slogan was, “Come and buy what others give that Oak Park charities may live.”
One hundred years later, that slogan continues to ring true. The shop remains a vibrant part of the community, supporting six local charities (including three of the original five!), providing volunteer opportunities for over 100 men and women, and offering donated merchandise for sale at reasonable prices.
We could not continue this wonderful tradition without the support of our partner agencies (Animal Care League, Children’s Clinic of Infant Welfare Society, OP-RF Day Nursery, OP-RF Food Pantry, Senior Citizens Center, and Thrive), our dedicated volunteers and staff, our loyal donors of merchandise, and our faithful customers.
In this 100th year, we are incredibly proud to announce that we have surpassed the $4,000,000 mark for donations to our partner agencies. We thank each and every one of you for helping us reach this milestone.
We are closed now for the summer, but will reopen Aug. 1, 2019 for donations. Our first sale of the next season will be Thursday, Sept. 5. Hope to see you there!
Nancy Gazzola Hines
For the Economy Shop Board of Directors
