Winter Park Benefit Shop Nears Closure Or Potential Move
The Winter Park Benefit Shop, a nonprofit fixture at Winter Park City Hall, is set to close or relocate as its lease comes to an end. Known for offering affordable, donated goods, the shop has been a valued resource for the community, with proceeds supporting local charities. Now, as it seeks a new location, the Winter Park Benefit Shop is determined to continue its mission of giving back.
Nestled at 140 W. Lyman Ave. in the former city jail, the shop has an all-volunteer staff that stocks a wide array of items, including clothing, jewelry, seasonal decor, and household goods, all at discounted prices. The Winter Park Benefit Shop has a rich history, dating back to 1935 when it was initially opened by the Winter Park Welfare Association. Today, it continues its legacy of supporting Central Florida’s community initiatives.
The Unique Story Of The Winter Park Benefit Shop
The Winter Park Benefit Shop began as a 1917 community initiative to provide essential goods to those in need. After several name changes and relocations, it found its current home in 2006, nestled in the back of City Hall, where remnants of the old jail add historical character to the store’s unique atmosphere.
Since settling at City Hall, the Winter Park Benefit Shop has operated without rent or utility expenses, courtesy of the city. However, with a planned renovation on the horizon, the shop’s lease will conclude on January 15, 2025. This extension allows the store to remain open through the holiday season, but efforts are underway to find a new location. The city has put the shop’s board in touch with local churches and realtors, with The Sharing Center offering to help distribute remaining inventory if relocation is not secured.
Currently, the shop is open Fridays and Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and continues to donate between $12,000 and $15,000 annually to area charities like Second Harvest Food Bank and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida. Community members are welcome to support its mission by shopping or by sharing relocation ideas. For further information, contact the shop at 407-691-7888.
Park Ave Magazine
If you would like to be a part of the conversation with Park Ave Magazine, be sure to check out our newest blogs, articles, food reviews, and events going on in our local community. Park Ave Magazine is full of fun and exciting articles, art, photography, and trivia about the city and Central Florida. We want to thank everyone who has put time and effort into making Park Ave Magazine a household name. We encourage all of our local friends to do their part to keep us updated with information because we want you to tell us what you would like to see us cover.
With new events, articles, and information being released on a regular basis, sign up for our newsletter and stay in the loop with all the exciting news. Meet all the wonderful people who make Winter Park, Orlando, and the areas around Central Florida an incredible place to work, play, and live. Check it out yourself at https://parkavemagazine.com/