By: Cassandra Harris-Lockwood:
Once Dr. A.L Shaheen donated his former offices to the Abraham House, it was an immediate drain on the finances of the not for profit. They had to heat it and keep utilities on as it was in the hands of a realtor for rental as commercial space. Nobody was biting for an office or retail outlet on the edge of Corn Hill.
However, Abraham House Executive Director, Gina Ciaccia, had visited another hospice location out of town that had a thrift store connected to it and hatched the idea to create one of their own in the former dentist’s office. She named it the Bird Nest and the East side’s only second hand store was born. It has been a great success.
Opening on the first day of summer, there has been a steady stream of customers and neighbors in and out of the stylish and well outfitted boutique establishment. Gina says, “We had a great week. We’ve met so many of our neighbors. The locals and residents have really come out to support us. “We don’t receive any state or federal monies. We rely upon our donors for support and our fundraisers. We really want to demonstrate to them that we are not just there for a handout. We want to make an effort towards self-sufficiency,” said the E.D. Ciaccia went on the add that the Bird Nest accepts donations of good used items every Tuesday from 10 AM – 4 PM and is also looking for volunteers to staff the new enterprise. Contact them at 315-733-8210.
