Specialties
The Parson's closet is a thrift store located in the Parsonage building of the Easthampton Congregational Church right in the center of Easthampton, Massachusetts. We offer clothing and accessories for men, women, and children, as well as housewares, toys, books, and more! All items are donated and all proceeds go toward supporting the church and the community.
Donations of gently worn items are always welcome during our business hours inside the store, or during off-hours can be left on the side porch near the parking lot.
We are also always in need of volunteers to help out in running the store; sorting donations, restocking the store, helping customers, etc. You do not need to be a member of the church to be a volunteer.
Whether you're interested in donating, shopping, or volunteering, we welcome you to stop in and say hi. There are always great sales and you never know just what treasures you'll find in The Parson's Closet!
History
Established in 2005.
The Parson's Closet was created as a way to help both the church and the surrounding community. Maintaining such an old and historic building as the Parsonage had become expensive and the church was worried it might have to tear it down. Many ideas were thrown out for ways of saving the building, but the one that stuck was to use the space as a thrift store. This idea came from long-time church member and former fashion merchandiser Kristine Furkey, who was then tasked with bringing her idea to fruition. After months of preparation and help from many other church members, The Parson's Closet opened in the Spring of 2005.
Since then, business has far exceeded initial expectations and The Parson's Closet has garnered a reputation for quality used goods, exceptional prices, orderly merchandise, and friendly staff.
Meet the Manager: Wendy J.
Wendy earned her degree in occupational therapy from Tufts University and worked over 20 years as an OT primarily with children and adults with developmental disabilities. She worked as a day manager for the Parson's Closet when it first opened. When Kris retired after 10 years she took over the management of the store. Wendy now supervises volunteers and tags and displays merchandise. We have volunteers both from the church and the community, including volunteers from a local program for adults with developmental disabilities. She has been an Easthampton resident for over 35 years and a dedicated member of the Congregational Church for over 25.
