Our beginnings
Although community outreach in De Pere had been in action long before our organization was formed, in 1990 eight churches got together to create a combined mission to help community members in need. Eight local founding churches, First Congregational UCC, First United Presbyterian, Hope Lutheran, Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic, St. Anne's Episcopal, St. Francis Xavier Catholic, St. Mary Catholic and St. John Lutheran, each donated $100 to create our mission's seed money. When New Hope United Methodist established itself in the De Pere community, they also joined our organization. From that initial seed money we received, and now through donations and sales at the Thrift Store, we have since been able to be self-supporting. De Pere Christian Outreach expanded into a Thrift Store in West De Pere and a Food Pantry in East De Pere.
The Thrift Store itself was first opened in the old Ford Bakery. Ever expanding, it was then moved to the former St. Francis parsonage house. From there the Thrift Store once again moved to a larger and more convenient one level location in West De Pere.
The Food Pantry had long since operated within St. Anne's Episcopal church before the vision of a permanent structure was completed. In 2012, a new and better equipped structure was built on the grounds of St. Anne's to accommodate the ever growing needs of the community.
The Thrift Store itself was first opened in the old Ford Bakery. Ever expanding, it was then moved to the former St. Francis parsonage house. From there the Thrift Store once again moved to a larger and more convenient one level location in West De Pere.
The Food Pantry had long since operated within St. Anne's Episcopal church before the vision of a permanent structure was completed. In 2012, a new and better equipped structure was built on the grounds of St. Anne's to accommodate the ever growing needs of the community.
What's new with DPCO?
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DPCO Thrift Store is Expanding and Renovating!
In June of 2015, the Thrift Store will be celebrating its seventh year at their current location in West De Pere. Since moving to our new location our service has been continually expanding. We have found that in order to keep effectively serving those in need and the community, we are in need of a building expansion. Our plans are to enlarge the amount of space on the shopping floor, build handicap accessible restrooms, improve our workspace, and reconfigure the docking station to allow more space for loading and unloading donations. In April of 2015, Keller Construction broke ground to begin these renovations which will require around $840,000. We are seeking donations to help us with these exciting new steps within our organization. We are committed to “loving your neighbor” and will be able to continue this mission with your help. All donations will be greatly appreciated. If you are interested in supporting us with a monetary donation, please click on the donate button today. Thank you! Any questions about donating or renovations? Visit our Contact Us page! |
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