KINGSTON, Tenn. — The Kingston United Methodist Church Clothes Closet Ministry offers quality clothes for a minimum price. Most items are $2.
"It's the best-kept secret in East Tennessee," manager Kay Catron said.
Wanda Pinkerton is a long-time volunteer.
"It's a wonderful ministry. Plus, people can find some really good bargains here. We're very blessed to have people in the community who keep donating to us that keeps it going," she said.
The store in downtown Kingston features rooms and rooms full of donated clothes, shoes, books and furniture.
Don't overlook the bargains or the outreach of the people.
"It blesses us and it blesses other people," Wanda said.
The Mission Room is behind a door near the back of the main building.it is where people in crisis can share their stories. They receiver prayer and whatever else they need.
"If you can't afford it then we give it to you. We ask no questions other than name and i.d. If you have a need we try to fill it," Kay said.
"Somebody comes in and they can get clothes for free when they really need it for their kids. That makes me feel good," Wanda said.
The mission depends on volunteers like Wanda Pinkerton. She runs the cash register, sorts donations, anything that needs to be done.
"I enjoy the work. I enjoy the people who come in. I see people who come in and get things that really need something," she said.
The Clothes Closet needs more volunteers. It can be a good fit for retired people or students who need to fulfill community service hours. But, really, a couple of hours here and there would be a big help.
"You can come in whenever you have a few hours to spare and when you get tired you can go home," Kay said.
It's a chance to help an organization that sells items at a low cost to offer an experience that's priceless.
The Clothes Closet opens every morning at 10 a.m. except Sunday, when it's closed.