Bargain Box thrift store reopens after closure due to the pandemic

VENTURA, Calif. -- A soft reopening took place at the Assistance League Bargain Box thrift store in Ventura on Friday. The store provides money to many local programs throughout the county.

People lined up outside the doors at the Assistance League Bargain Box Thrift shop which had been close for nearly a year due to the pandemic. Friday's event was a "soft reopening". with a grand reopening planned for Saturday.

“Today we have invited in the people that have been in our emailing list throughout the year,” said Kay Rich, chairman of Assistance League Bargain Box thrift store.

The Assistance League of Ventura County says it aims to enrich the lives of Ventura County children. The store revenue provides assistance to many programs such as Assistance League School for kids with disabilities, and Operation School Bell that provides school clothing and supplies for kids in need. With the store not open for a year, the money for these programs was limited.

“With no revenue, and of course we also rely on donations, but those were down as well and so we will be also to start getting some funds again to support our programs,” said Pam Eichele, part of the Assistance League of Ventura County.

Store managers say the soft opening was a success, as many people in the community stopped by to purchase some hidden gems, and to see some old friends once again

“They were all so happy to come back to the store today and we are so thrilled to have them come back,” said Eichele.

The store will have its grand reopening Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. The Bargain Box Thrift Store is located at 3351 Telegraph Rd. in Ventura.