By Martha Nodar
Offering assistance to survivors of domestic sexual exploitation is the goal of Wellspring Treasures, an upscale resale shop tucked into the Toco Hills shopping center.
“This shop has been tremendously embraced by the community,” said Kathleen Kennard, who oversees all four stores operated by nonprofit Wellspring Living. “We are very appreciative.”
Decatur resident Jill Rowe said she has been a frequent customer since the store opened last year.
“From the outside this store looks like a boutique in Europe,” Rowe said. “I was struck when I first walked in the shop. The way it is set-up and the quality of the merchandise are very sophisticated. Prices are consistent with the quality.”
A welcoming ambiance begins as one steps into the store’s front door, which may be open depending on the weather. Patrons are likely to find soft music playing in the background and a friendly staff ready to offer a fresh cup of tea.
A room with a view of the parking lot highlights the furniture gallery – a section of the store decorated to induce a feeling of comfort with soft silk pillows, a dining room table and chairs, a china set, an armoire, throw blankets, lamps, art work and home décor.
Friends Claire Capshew and Allison Harper of the Emory area said they generally stop by the shop when they visit the shopping center as part of their routine.
“Claire and I typically come by at least twice a month,” Harper said. “They have good quality items here that are very unique. It also feels good to contribute to the organization’s mission.”
Kennard said proceeds from the shop offset the operating expenses of a Wellspring Living’s recovery campus in the Atlanta area designed to help survivors of domestic sexual exploitation. She said these expenses include the cost of food, clothing, counseling, education, housing maintenance and grounds upkeep.
Donations of furniture, home décor and women’s clothing in good condition are always welcome, Kennard said.
“Just about everything we have here has been donated,” said Barbara Halpern, the shop’s assistant manager. “As the result, we are able to be frugal and maintain this store through our volunteers. As we continue to grow, we will need more volunteers.”
Rowe, Capshew and Harper said they never leave the store without checking out a small section carrying women’s clothing and accessories, such as tops, pants, scarves, shoes, purses, and jewelry.
Books are also sold here.
The store is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. For more information call (404) 875-9797 or visit wellspringliving.org.