Wednesday, June 23, 2010

West Philadelphia: The Second Mile

The Second Mile thrift store is divided into 3 locations along 45th street between Walnut and Locust. The smallest of the 3 locations is full of home décor and housewares items. One of the other parts sells only furniture, such as dressers, vintage looking chairs and couches. The third and largest part of the chain is full of clothing for men, women and children.


This isn't a typical thrift shop, where those spring cleaning dump their unwanted items. The Second Mile is a thrift store “recycling things to redeem people.” The store's website describes the place as somewhere “For those marginalized by society, struggling to recover from addictions, abuse or crime it is a 'hand up, not a handout,' a second chance at life and a job in a faith based, structured and supportive environment.” During our visit, we were unable to talk to anyone working in the store about the goal and mission of the establishment. However, based on what we saw, as well as the information on their website, it's easy to see the Second Mile is not only a haven for thrifty shoppers in West Philadelphia, but also a place of rest for those struggling in life.


Group su1015westphilly

By Ashley Myers and Kimberly Wood


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