SUN CITY, Ariz. — First Fridays are one way to get out and experience local art and flair with vendors showcasing their goods across the Valley. Now, a locally owned and operated thrift shop is trying to make "Third Thursdays" happen in Sun City near Peoria Avenue and 107th Avenue.
Hearts 2 Help Thrift Store started Third Thursdays with neighboring thrift store partners to bring the community together, keep the stores open until 7 p.m. once a month for evening shoppers, and help the stores give back to those in need.
"We all give back, we're community-driven, we have a mission and each one is a different mission and so it's a way to support the local non-profit thrift stores here," Andrea Ortiz, owner of Hearts 2 Help, said.
Ortiz started the thrift store with her mom, Shirley Ortiz, more than a decade ago to give back. The shop gives away items to those experiencing homelessness and to those in need of items without any expectations and is mostly volunteer-run.
Not only does purchasing items help Hearts 2 Help continue its mission, but Ortiz said donating items helps them continue to help others as well.
During Third Thursdays, the stores in Sun Bowl Plaza run sales for shoppers, and food vendors are also available on-site too. The next "Third Thursday" is set for April 18th.