Open Wednesdays All Year!
In 1962, the Women’s Alliance determined to establish a church school using a Unitarian curriculum. This was particularly significant as the church had just withdrawn from federation with the neighboring Pilgrim church (UCC). To support the new Sunday School, a group of young mothers and the Alliance decided to open a consignment shop.
Originally located in a nearby barn, then in a neighboring home, and finally in Unity Hall after the Bothfeld sisters’ generous gift of an addition to the church for offices, classrooms, and a large meeting room, they called it The Good As New Shop, or GANS, as it accepted only items for sale that were as good as new.
Staffed by volunteers, the shop earned money by keeping a commission on every item sold. At least one customer from those days is still a regular visitor, and several customers recall first coming to the shop with their mothers when they were children.
With more than 200 regular consignors from 36 Massachusetts towns, the Good As New Shop offers a cozy spot to enjoy coffee, tea, cookies, and other treats. It’s the perfect place to catch up with friends and discover amazing bargains every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on the first Wednesday of the month from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Approximately every three months GANS holds a half-price sale – EVERYTHING in the shop is half price. Any remaining merchandise is donated to a variety of charities at the end of the sale.
GANS also accepts donations. A large basket just inside the doors of Unity Hall is clearly marked for that purpose. All donations must be in “good as new” condition! Please no torn, chipped, stained, or otherwise obviously worn items. Only donate items that you would consider giving to a friend as a gift.
The Good As New Shop is 100% volunteer-staffed, and we welcome new volunteers. If you have 2 or 3 hours – or a whole day – to share on a Wednesday, come join us. Remember, volunteers enjoy the “first look” at all the good bargains that come in to the shop!
We invite you to come to shop, to visit, to consign, and to become part of UUAC’s original small group ministry. You are always welcome.
