Together we can.

Here you will find information about setting up a free store, links to the forms you need, a video of Judy being interviewed by our local TV Station, and our story .       JUDY AND JACK TEZAK

1. FEIN #  https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online

2. You will need to set up a  Nonprofit Corporation in your State. You will need officers and directors. Articles of Incorporation and bylaws. If you would like examples please email me jftezak@gmail.com

3. Fill out the IRS application  Form 1023 EZ  

https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-1023-ez

https://youtu.be/cq6b2ctv1r8

Hi, my name is Ron Krafft.
I started volunteering at the free store little over a year ago. I volunteered at Habitat for a while but found the Free Store more rewarding due to the interaction with people in need of help. In the relatively short time, I have worked there I have come to appreciate the level of need in this area. I have met many people young and elderly that freely share the difficulties of their present situation. I had one young mother kept apologizing every time she told me what she needed. I tried to assure her this is what we are here for. I met an elderly lady today in need of surgery on her back. Unable to pay for insurance on her home she let it elapse, in that time a fire started in the attic and took everything she had. Due to the generosity of our community, we were able to give her a complete bedroom set and couch. One of the volunteers Maria was able to find all the bedding, towels, pillows, pots, pans, etc. These are the ones we are most proud of, the ability to help at their worst time. This store that Judy and Jack have created has become a vital part of the safety net of the community. The people volunteering at the free store are the best, they have become like family, their generosity and kindness to those in need is to be commended. We survive on donations from the community for goods, and donations from the people receiving those goods. The donations are normally in the form of $2.00 to $5.00. Sometimes the people do not have the price of a meal in their pocket so obviously there is no charge.  This is just a small sampling of the good this store does. I hope this information is helpful.
Ron

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If I want more information who do I contact.

For information for the Day to Day operation contact Judy 815 685 8412 or Raisinghopefreestore@gmail.com

For information on how we set up the 501 c 3  or about the building purchase contact Jack at 573 286 8110 or jftezak@gmail.com

How many people dose it take to run the store?

On days we are open it takes 5 to 6 volunteers 

Are there any Paid Employees?

All Working at the free Store are just that volunteers, No wages are paid.

How many hours are you open a week?

 3 days Tuesday Thursday and Saturday 3 hours a day. The other days are when we process and pick up donations.

How do you know who visits the store?.

We track the names, number of family members, transportation if they are a veteran, senior, homeless and what county they live in.

How do you get donations?

None of our accomplishments and our future would be possible without our community support and their generous donations of good clean usable household goods.

How do you get operating funds?

The Raising Hope Free Store operates solely on Donations, our families when able , place what they can in our donation jars, all proceeds received go solely to operational expenses.

We also have a small  boutique area where we  place a suggested donation price on to help offset operating funds. These items are wants not needs. When donors donate these type of items we ask the donor if that is ok for us to do that ,Sometimes items will go to an Auction house. if they prefer not, the items go to floor to be given away

How much dose it cost to operate the store?

Our cost are Mortgage $808.00, utilities and insurance and supplies approximately $500.00 per month.

Do families take advantage of the store;

We limit the families visits to once every 30 days, and the amount of items they can take,

Unless their are extenuating circumstances then we work the families to help them attain their needs.

Do you work with any local agencies..

Many organizations use our store for their clients needs on a regular basis Red Cross ,Police Dept, Domestic Violence Shelter, Dept of Children's services  among others. These organizations have 24 hr access to the store if emergencies arises thru key pad access.

most come in during regular hours but some of our families need to remain anonymous.

Not only do we supply clothing household goods and furniture we also help with getting our families the knowledge of resources in our area and the surrounding areas if they are not familiar with them. 

The store does not hand out cash.

Do you have a Mortgage .

Yes It started 4 years ago at $125.000 currant balance $72,000.00. 

Our goal is to pay off the mortgage within the next two years.