La Mesa Business

Charity Thrift Store Passes $1-Million Mark

LA MESA -- After 20 years in business, the Thrift Korral Resale Boutique marked $1 million in donations to Sharp Grossmont Hospital. The powerhouse thrift store’s donations help fund the hospital’s major initiatives, including the da Vinci® Robotic Surgery System, new state-of-the-art Cardiac Catheterization Lab, and Sharp HospiceCare’s Hospice Homes.

Located less than one mile away from the East County medical center, The Thrift Korral sells new and gently used merchandise, including clothing, house wares, books and collectibles. In 2012, the store donated more than $150,000 to the hospital – an astonishing feat despite the store’s bargain-basement price tags.

With the average cost of an item at $2, community members and a staff of 75 volunteers is the cornerstone of the store’s philanthropic contributions to the medical center.

"Our volunteers and staff are very proud of the growth and accomplishments we have achieved over the past 20 years,” said Connie Crain, Manager, Thrift Korral. “Reaching the $1 million donation milestone for the hospital is proof that our dedication and hard work are really making a difference for patients, their families and staff."

The Thrift Korral is a part of Grossmont Hospital Auxiliary, which is a philanthropic arm of Sharp Grossmont Hospital.