The House of Hope thrift store in Stuart is offering shoppers an inexpensive way to stock up for the holidays and help people in need at the same time.

At the agency's Stuart location - at the corner of A1A (Dixie Highway) and Bonita Street in Golden Gate - table are overflowing with Christmas items, including cards, bows, ornaments, lights, wreaths, ceramics, table-top trees and much more. The inventory changes as donations come in, and prices range from about 50 cents to a few dollars.

Plenty of Halloween decorations also are in stock.

The income from thrift store sales is more important than ever as more people seek help from House of Hope. Declining jobs and rising prices are plunging more and more families into crisis, as seen by the more than 50 percent increase in requests for service at House of Hope over the past two years.

By supporting the thrift stores, people can save money while helping others in need.

About House of Hope

House of Hope (HOH) is a community service agency whose mission is to provide help and hope to Martin County's poor. Founded in 1984, House of Hope has become a vital safety net for people on the economic edge - primarily low-wage workers, fixed-income senior citizens and people suffering through personal life tragedies.

The agency operates three service programs that address basic human needs: The Pantry Program provides food; the Clothes Closet Program offers clothing and household items; and the Emergency Financial Assistance (EFA) Program helps people make their rent, mortgage and/or utility payments so they can stay in their homes.

House of Hope depends on donations of time, talent and treasures. The organization welcomes volunteers and donations of food, clothing, thrift store items and monetary gifts.

For more information about House of Hope, call (772) 286-HOPE (4673), or visit www.hohmartin.org.