SCOTCH PLAINS — After a twoweek, end-of-summer closing beginning after close of business this Saturday, August 19, the non-profit Thrift Shop operated by the Fanwood-Scotch Plains Service League (FSPSL) at 1741 East Second Street, Scotch Plains, will re-open for business on Tuesday, September 5.

The opening will mark the start of the FSPSL’s much-anticipated annual designer-handbag event. There will be gently-used handbags from Michael Kors, Kate Spade, Coach and Cole Haan, among other famous brands, along with wallets for men and women and a variety of evening bags for all types of special events.

Upon the shop’s reopening, customers also will find the store shelves stocked with fall merchandise, including clothing and autumn- themed décor. In the Linen Department, a wide variety of vintage aprons will be available, from everyday practical to holiday fancy. Besides quilts, bedding, throw pillows, tablecloths, napkins and curtains, winter fabrics like Ultrasuede and woolens will be priced at approximately $1 a yard. Material is precut and ready for sale.

Store hours are Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The FSPSL encourages shoppers to drop by the store early in the month for the best selection of handbags and to shop a wide selection of constantly-replenished clothing, shoes, bric-a-brac, linens, household goods, toys, games, books, CDs and DVDs. Children are always welcome provided they are accompanied by an adult.

The all-volunteer FSPSL thanks all patrons and contributors of goods for their ongoing support of the Thrift Shop. All store proceeds outside of operating expenses are directed back to the community. Due to donors and customer sales, $60,000 in grants to local organizations and student scholarships were awarded in 2023 and many goods found a second, useful life rather than winding up in a landfill.

For more information about store donations and volunteer opportunities, call (908) 322-5420 during Thrift Shop business hours.