
Peeper's Paradise is a non-profit thrift store that will provide gently used and new merchandise through donations at an affordable price. Our aim is to help people during tough economic times. Proceeds from this will aid in opening a non-profit shelter. The name of the shelter will be The GIFTT Foundation.
This shelter will possibly benefit individuals, but its main purpose is to shelter displaced families. There are currently no shelters in Lake Charles, LA to house families, only those strictly for women/children. While sale operations will be performed at the thrift store-nothing will be sold at the foundation.
Everything offered at the foundation will be of no charge to the occupants. Services at the foundation will include job training/placement, continued education, credit counseling, home purchase options, food bank and clothing referrals, day care services, mental health counseling and other services as needed.
The initial goal for The GIFTT Foundation would be to build a shelter which would house families/individuals in their own private living quarters for a designated period of time. The occupant(s) would then be transitioned back into their own homes, new homes, apartments or other desired dwelling place.
To find out more about what we're doing please follow us on our social media sites
Your support and contributions will enable us to meet our goals and improve conditions. Your generous donation will fund our mission.
Peeper's Paradise is a non-profit thrift store which will cater to those shoppers that are economically challenged and are shopping for quality, essential items and those who are looking for exceptional, non-essential items at affordable prices. There will be new and gently used items sold in the store that will be hand selected, clean and in good repair.
In one (1) year, the financial goal is to reach $200K. In three (3) years, the financial goal is to reach $550K. In five (5) years, the financial goal is to reach $2.5 million. Also, during this time there will be raffles, silent/live auctions, and flea market vendors to help in raising funds.
Other local thrift stores/flea markets which will be competitive/comparative to Peeper's Paradise includes: Goodwill Industries, The Salvation Army, Bargain World, CARC Treasure Chest, Care Help along with various others. But, what will set Peeper's Paradise apart from the previous mentioned is the goal to build and open a home shelter for families from a large percentage of its proceeds. There's currently not a shelter in Lake Charles for families.
The management team will include Sandra Braxter, owner/operator and Cathy Bass, Assistant Manager. Combined, we have over 30 years of experience in the retail/resale industry and in the customer service arena. The Board of Directors will include: Pastor Marie Carrier, Pastors Faye/Wilton Red and Betty Stanley. Collectively, these directors have over 50 years of experience in community growth, hospitality, spiritual outreach and the human services arenas.
In order to get Peeper's Paradise from paper to reality, we're seeking $750K. Please note the following estimated breakdown of costs:
Storefront/Insurance: $400K, Equipment/Supplies(shelves, display cases, cabinets, racks, etc.): $35K, Sandra's salary: $40K, Cathy's salary: $35K, Board Member's salary (4board members)@ $20K annually: $80K, Stockers (2@ $20K annually): $40K, Cashiers (2@ $20K annually): $40K, Bookkeeper/CPA: $45K, Utilities: $15K
The total for the above is $730K and the remaining $20K would be for any additional expenses that may occur.
I have to RUN in order to get this endeavor off the ground. R-U-N?!!! Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Sincerely,
Sandra Braxter
We love our customers, so feel free to visit during normal business hours when the doors open.
Opening Soon!!!
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