Thrift Store to Help Battle Child Abuse

A Chatsworth thrift store benefiting a national organization that fights child abuse will celebrate its grand opening today and Sunday with clowns, balloons, iced tea and cookies.

Reclaimed Treasures, at 21417 Devonshire St. in the Hughes Market Shopping Center, will be open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. today and Sunday. Regular business hours will be 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

“We’re just inviting people to see who we are and what we are,” said manager Kim Christian.

Proceeds from the sale of secondhand items will benefit Childhelp USA, a 32-year-old advocacy group that seeks to prevent, treat and study child abuse and neglect, she said. The group maintains treatment centers in California and Virginia and a 24-hour hotline.

“Everything goes directly to the organization,” Christian said.

The store accepts donations of adult and children’s clothing, furniture, small appliances, sports and equipment, books and housewares such as dishes and linens. All items must be in good working condition, Christian stressed. Tax receipts are available for each donation.

For information or to arrange collection of large items, call (818) 727-9798.