Building community for 38 years

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Today I celebrated with the Moriarty community the 38th birthday of Bethel Storehouse. It was a grand time with bounce houses and games... friendly faces everywhere. 
 
When I first moved here, I discovered the thrift store was a great place to pick up household and yard items to help me settle on my homestead.  

During Covid, I was among those who were generously given food boxes from the storehouse. They even gave me dog food for my furry friends. 

Now, living alone on the homestead, I go to Bethel to see friendly faces and share stories. I also get good quality clothes and shoes. I love thrift stores! 

Friendly staff and volunteers
Linda Smith has led the nonprofit for 37 of its 38 years. When I praised her success, she said, "It's not me. It's the community. They make Bethel work so well." 

They live up to their mission statement:
"Our Mission for Bethel Community Storehouse is to be a Christ centered non-profit mission providing food, clothing and more for those in need in the Estancia Valley area of central New Mexico." 

In the eight years I've lived in Moriarty, Bethel and the people who work there have become a second family, helping me, without judgement, during some pretty hard times. 

Whenever I visit, I know I'll see Linda, quietly present to make sure things run smoothly. 

Longtime and loyal employees include Olivia, Robert, Vicki and Miley. I love hearing their stories as they total my purchases. 

Bethel offers free classes and workshops, like wood burning and nutrition education. A community health worker from UNM-H visits on Thursdays. Dar sells local honey there once or twice a week. 

They also have a new vehicle donation program, and they partner with businesses like Smith's and Sunward Credit Union in Edgewood. 

So if you are in Moriarty, check out Bethel Storehouse for unique treasures and friendly local people. Until next time... 

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