Chelsea Groton Foundation Assists The Arc Emporium

The Arc Eastern Connecticut’s Emporium, a high-end thrift store in Woodstock employing people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, received a $2,432 grant from the Chelsea Groton Foundation to create inventory and storage space for donated items prior to their sale. “We were closed for several months due to the pandemic,” said Director of Community Enterprise Jennifer Ricci, “so the community was thrilled when we reopened in October—everyone was very supportive.” Donations once again poured in, and participant employees were able to better store and arrange the items. “Most people don’t know what goes into this type of business,” noted Ricci. “Shelving and storage space are vital parts of making sure our employees can rotate and track our clothing, furniture and household items. The Chelsea Groton Foundation understood that and came to our rescue. We couldn’t be happier with the results.” The Arc Emporium, at 22 Rt 171 in Woodstock, is open Monday-Friday from 10am-2pm. To learn more about The Arc Eastern Connecticut and its programs throughout the region, and for weekly agency updates and resources during the COVID-19 pandemic, please visit TheArcECT.org or contact Denise Tift at (860) 889-4435, ext. 116.