Transforming Lake Placid: The Thrive and Thrift Community Hub Takes Shape

The forthcoming combined food pantry and thrift shop in Lake Placid has a new name, a dedicated board, and ambitious plans to serve the community. Dubbed the Lake Placid Thrive and Thrift, this nonprofit organization is poised to take over the operations of the Lake Placid Ecumenical Food Pantry and the shuttered Helping Hands Thrift Shop, creating a one-stop hub for essential services and community support.

Empowering the Community, One Donation at a Time

A New Name, a Renewed Vision

The Lake Placid Thrive and Thrift is the result of a strategic evolution from the Lake Placid Ecumenical Council. Under the leadership of Lake Placid Baptist Church Pastor Jim Koenig, the new eight-member board includes a diverse group of community leaders, each bringing unique expertise and a shared commitment to making a difference. From the co-founder of ADK Bridges to Empowerment to the Lake Placid Public Library Assistant Librarian, this team is well-equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Funding the Future

The project has received a significant boost with a 0,000 financial commitment from New York state Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie. This contribution, while a remarkable testament to the state's investment in the community, is just the beginning. The Thrive and Thrift team is working tirelessly to raise additional funds, with the goal of reaching 0,000 before the state's funds are released. Through community fundraising events, such as the successful May fundraiser at Mr. Mike's Pizza and the June 30 reopening fundraiser at Generations Tap and Grill, the project has already garnered over 0,000 in support, excluding the state's commitment.

A Community-Driven Effort

The Thrive and Thrift project is designed to be a true community resource, with the Adirondack Foundation serving as the fiscal sponsor during the initial stages. As the project moves forward, the new Thrive and Thrift board will take over the fundraising and operations, ensuring that the community's voice is heard and their needs are met. The team is actively encouraging everyone in the community to get involved, whether through financial contributions or volunteer efforts.

Expanding Services, Increasing Impact

The new facility, set to be placed on its foundation in early August, will house both the food pantry and the thrift shop, allowing for a more comprehensive and efficient service delivery. The increased space will require more volunteers to keep the operations running smoothly, and the Thrive and Thrift team is confident that the community will rise to the occasion.

A Beacon of Hope and Resilience

At the heart of the Thrive and Thrift project is a deep understanding of the community's needs and a commitment to providing a safety net for those in need. Pastor Koenig's personal experience of relying on community support during a difficult time has shaped his vision for the project, ensuring that it will be a place where everyone can find the assistance and resources they require.

A Collaborative Effort

The Thrive and Thrift project is a collaborative effort, with the Lake Placid-based housing nonprofit Homestead Development Corporation overseeing the construction and working with Simplex Homes, a modular construction company, to design and fabricate the building. This partnership ensures that the new facility will be tailored to the community's needs and built with efficiency and sustainability in mind.

A Bright Future Ahead

As the Thrive and Thrift project moves forward, the community of Lake Placid can look forward to a transformed landscape, where essential services and community support are seamlessly integrated. With the food pantry and thrift shop set to open in October, the Thrive and Thrift team is poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of those they serve, empowering individuals and families to thrive in the face of adversity.