BY STACI WILSON

A fresh, new boutique experience awaits Susquehanna County Interfaith shoppers at the organization’s new headquarters on Rt. 706, just east of Montrose.

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held Thursday evening, Oct. 8, where staff and supporters gathered to officially unveil the new store and offices to the public.

Interfaith director Cynthia Beeman offered her thanks to the program supporters, as well as the board members, who made the move from the Public Ave., Montrose, location possible.

“You are making the programs grow, change and flourish in the county,” Beeman said. “Our goal is to share hope, advocacy and encourage people.”

Beeman said the new location allows the not-for-profit organization to serve more people and provides a place to “shop with dignity.”

“And help is right there, too, if someone needs it,” she said.

Beeman also offered special thanks to the volunteers and staff members. “They invested their money and time to make this place special and unique.”

“A few of us can’t do everything, but all together we can make a difference in our community,” Beeman said.

Some of the furniture used to display items in a boutique-like array was donated by the family of Dr. Paul Kerr.

Patti Dudock, a former Interfaith volunteer and board member, attended the ribbon cutting ceremony. “To watch (Interfaith) grow is like watching your kids grow and get bigger and better,” she said.

Throughout the year, Interfaith sponsors a number of familiar programs – providing shoes and backpacks to students returning to school in the fall and the annual Christmas Bureau which provides families with holiday meals and presents.

Beeman also mentioned the annual Thanksgiving dinner hosted by Interfaith. Residents from area nursing and personal care homes, as well as clients of various other agencies take part in the annual celebration.

As the weather turns cold, Interfaith also administers a fuel assistance program, providing a safety net to local residents.

“The fuel program will begin soon,” she said, “helping people in a desperate need. It’s a blessing to be able to do that – that we are able to give a little bit of hope.”

Next year, Interfaith plans to recognize volunteerism in the county.

Susquehanna County Interfaith is located at 17120 SR 706, Montrose. The store is open Monday – Thursday, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; Friday, 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; and Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

For more information about Interfaith or its programs, call 570-278-1776.