‘Come thrift so others can thrive:’ Poland’s Thrift & Thrive at the Farm marks first year
Thrift & Thrive at the Farm, a resale store selling new and used donated goods, recently celebrated its one-year anniversary at its Poland location, located at 3279 E. Western Reserve Road.
The store, operated by Jody Cercone, offers home goods, holiday items, seasonal merchandise, clothing, and antiques, and is open from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.
It follows a unique model that includes donating a portion of its proceeds monthly to local organizations such as Autism Society of Mahoning Valley, Ohio Valley Adult and Teen Challenge-Youngstown and Youngstown Blue Coats.
Cercone discovered his passion for thrifting while fundraising for his daughter’s mission trip through their church, which led to a seven-year venture called Missions Marketplace in Coitsville. Though the church market eventually closed, Jody, a full-time manufacturing rep in stage and studio lighting, saw potential in the concept.
After retiring, he learned about available space at Barth Farms and launched Thrift & Thrive at the Farm in July 2023. With a steady supply of donated goods, inventory is kept fresh, turning donations into support for organizations making a difference in the Valley.
“After the church market closed, the flame never extinguished. Thrifting has been trending for some time, and I felt if we could do something good as a result, then we would all win,” Cercone said.
He calls it completing the recycling circle when someone donates an item, and it is repurposed by someone else.
The store is planning a variety of promotions throughout the next few months continuing the anniversary celebration.
“Come thrift so others can thrive,” said Cercone.