Blessingdales Thrift Store will hold a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of its second location in the Georgetown community on Wednesday, Sept. 17, at 11 a.m.

The new 11,214-square-foot location significantly expands the organization’s capacity to serve the Savannah area. The original Blessingdales, located in Savannah, is 8,800 square feet.

Blessingdales is a nonprofit thrift shop that raises funds to support The Living Vine, a maternity home that provides housing, meals and life skills training for mothers and their children.

Since its founding in 1996, The Living Vine has helped more than 550 women through community donations and support services.

“With the opening of our Georgetown store and the addition of new leadership, we’re entering an exciting new season,” said Dawn Rodriguez, newly appointed executive director of The Living Vine. “This expansion allows us to reach more people, create more jobs, and serve more families in need.”

The Georgetown store, at full capacity, will carry up to 15,000 garments compared to 5,000 garments in the Savannah location.

“We are excited that our capacity will triple,” said Keith Copeland, director of retail operations at Blessingdales.

Both stores combined employ 25 staff members, including four mothers currently living at The Living Vine who each work about 18 hours per week. A dedicated team of 12 regular volunteers contributes an estimated 50 hours per week to the effort.

“Since Keith Copeland joined The Living Vine in June 2021, we have seen a steady and impressive increase in retail growth, averaging 20 percent year over year, with an overall growth of 40 percent,” said Dawn Rodriguez, executive director of The Living Vine. “Keith’s leadership, vision and commitment have been instrumental in expanding Blessingdales Thrift Stores and strengthening our ability to serve mothers and their children. His impact has been transformative for our mission and the families who depend on us.”

The name Blessingdales reflects the mission behind every donation and purchase to be a blessing to others. Community members are encouraged to continue donating gently used clothing and housewares to support the organization’s mission.

Donations are vital to stocking both Blessingdales locations and supporting The Living Vine’s mission. Starting Monday, Aug. 11, donations will be accepted from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday, at both the Savannah and Georgetown stores. Items can be dropped off at the back of each location; look for signs directing you to the designated donation areas. Accepted items include clothing (all sizes and seasons), shoes and accessories, housewares and kitchen items, home décor, small furniture, books, toys and linens. All donated items should be clean, complete and in good working condition. Blessingdales cannot accept broken, stained or hazardous items.