MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan — After being shuttered for nearly nine months at the direction of the base commander, the thrift store at this southern Hiroshima station has reopened its doors, now under new management.
This store serves as a valuable resource for the community, offering donated clothing, appliances, and a variety of household items for reuse.
New Management and Mission
Now managed by the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, an organization committed to supporting military personnel, the thrift store’s revival has its roots in a conversation between Sgt. Maj.
Jody Armentrout and Christina Grantham, the society’s on-base director.
In August, they discussed the possibility of reestablishing the shop, and during the grand opening, Grantham highlighted its mission: to ensure the thrift store’s sustainability and effective financial oversight for the benefit of the community at large.
The Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society aids service members through various means, including financial loans, scholarships, and assistance with costs related to relocations, medical emergencies, and urgent travel.
Last year alone, the society allocated $50 million in support, demonstrating its significant impact.
In addition to its efforts at MCAS Iwakuni, the society operates thrift stores in Sasebo, Yokosuka, and Pearl Harbor.
Community Impact and Support
Grantham shared the hurdles faced while reopening the store on a tight schedule, targeting a Christmas launch.
Starting from scratch with no inventory, the effort leaned heavily on the commitment of 28 enthusiastic volunteers.
Fortunately, support came from the thrift store in Sasebo, which generously donated merchandise to kickstart the inventory.
During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, base commander Col. Richard Rusnok emphasized the importance of the thrift shop to the community.
He noted that the store not only facilitates the resale and repurposing of donated items but also plays a crucial role in reducing waste and keeping goods out of local landfills.
The closure of the store in March, ordered by Rusnok, had not been accompanied by specific reasons at the time.
However, he acknowledged the various challenges that led to its shutting down and expressed appreciation for the community’s tireless efforts in supporting the store’s reopening.
He pointed out that many operational issues could not be effectively managed under the former leadership.
Looking Ahead
At the ceremony, Rusnok also praised the Seabees detachment for their renovation work on the store while it was closed.
He highlighted the profound impact the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society has on the community, revealing that it contributes over $350,000 annually in grants and support.
Moreover, the organization boasts a stellar charity rating from charitynavigator.org, which assesses the effectiveness and overall well-being of charitable entities.
Looking ahead, Grantham hopes to transform the thrift shop into a vibrant community hub that fosters service and encourages repurposing.
She assured attendees that all profits generated by the shop would directly support the overarching mission of the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, reinforcing the positive impact of the store on local service members and their families.
Source: Stripes