Hadassah-The Women’s Zionist Organization of America has announced the closing of its resale shop located in the Bradley Village Shopping Center. It will officially close in April and is no longer accepting donations.
For almost 30 years, Hadassah has been serving the public by selling gently used clothing and home furnishings while raising funds for its hospitals in Jerusalem.
“It is with great regret that we are closing the store,” said Ruth Hilrich, chairman of Hadassah Upscale Resale, as the store is known. “The current economy, major slowdown of business resulting in losses to us, and the exorbitant rent we pay have brought us to this difficult decision.”
Operating in its present location for the past eight years, Hilrich also noted that it has been a continuing problem to get salespeople to work in the shop.
She added, “We’re open weekdays from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and our volunteers are getting older, including our oldest volunteer, Belle Garfinkel who’s 101. She’s amazing and is still active. Often, she brings lunch for the other volunteers and is always willing to do anything that is needed.
“But, unfortunately, the bottom line is our sales are down and our rent is up.”
Plans are to liquidate and sell out the merchandise. “Whatever’s left at the end of the month will be given to a local church,” Hilrich said.
The Hadassah office, currently also at the Brown Deer location, will be moved but will remain open to serve its members. Information on its location and hours will be made available to members in the near future. For more information, call Hilrich, 414-964-0343.
