Pasco News

Large crowd initiates Gulfside Hospice thrift store

Photos

TBO.com
Suncoast News staff report
Published: November 16, 2012

NEW PORT RICHEY - More than 450 people appeared for the recent grand opening and ribbon cutting of the newest Gulfside Regional Hospice Thrift Shoppe.

Members from the West Pasco Chamber of Commerce joined Gulfside staff, board members and volunteers to launch the New Port Richey store at 6117 S.R. 54, hospice officials said.

The new location joins four other shops in Dade City, Hudson, Lutz and Zephyrhills.

Linda Ward, Gulfside's president and CEO, welcomed the crowd and thanked the community for being patient in having the store reopen after Tropical Storm Debby.

"Gulfside Regional Hospice never turns anyone with a life-limiting illness away, and our thrift shops help make this possible by raising money for Gulfside," Ward said in a news release.

The stores raise more than $1.5 million a year to provide hospice care in the area. Donated items allow the community to shop for bargains as well, Ward said.

Gulfside's chief operations officer, David Brown, board chair Larry Starnes and West Pasco Thrift Shoppe coordinator Shirley Finn also spoke during the opening ceremony.

All Gulfside shops are open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Volunteers and donations are needed at all locations. Donations are accepted daily during business hours. Pickups can be scheduled for larger items by calling the nearest store.

All proceeds are designated to provide care for patients and families facing life-limiting illnesses in Pasco County.

For more information, go to www.grhospice.org or call (727) 842-7262.