Adams Rescue Mission (ARM) will expand its services into Upper Adams County with the grand opening of a new thrift store in Biglerville on July 21.
The opening event will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 38 West York Street, the former site of the Adams County Surplus and Supply store, and will include sales, giveaways, and refreshments. Donations of jewelry, antiques, clothing, and furniture will be accepted. Pickup services are available for large donations.
The new store reflects ARM’s ongoing mission to support individuals facing hunger, homelessness, abuse, or addiction. Executive Director Will Hudson, who has led the organization for the past year and a half, said the store is part of a broader effort to bring restoration and support to underserved communities.
Hudson, a former Marine and ordained pastor, said he is focused on growing ARM’s programs and improving outcomes for the people it serves. Under his leadership, ARM has introduced on-site addiction counseling and improved its housing facilities. The organization is known for maintaining contact with former clients for up to two years after they leave the program.
ARM also operates the Agape House Family Shelter in Gettysburg, overseen by Jennifer Punchard, who also leads the mission’s homelessness prevention initiatives.
In addition to the new thrift store, ARM will continue hosting monthly “Warehouse Church” services at its York Road campus.
The organization also has several fundraising events planned, including its 11th annual golf tournament on August 2 at Flatbush Golf Course in Littlestown. Registration is $80 per person or $300 per team of four.
To address the county’s childcare shortage, ARM has launched an affordable licensed childcare program in York Springs and aims to open six centers within five years. Parents must be working or enrolled in an education program within 60 days of enrollment. For more information, contact Rachel Greathouse at 717-334-7502 ext. 27 or rgreathouse@adamsrescuemission.org.
ARM has also partnered with Christian Counseling Associates to offer licensed outpatient drug and alcohol counseling at its Gettysburg locations.
“In today’s world, it’s easy to become homeless,” said Hudson. “The community has grown to trust and believe in ARM.”
ARM will participate in the Adams County Community Foundation’s Giving Spree on November 6 and accepts donations online at adamsrescuemission.org.
Amy Thomas, Contributing Editor, is responsible for community outreach, including our social media presence. She, her husband, and her two children reside in Adams County. Amy also works in occupational therapy and volunteers with local organizations.