in Chatsworth, Grey Highlands, Southgate, West Grey
September 10, 2024
The Pennywise Thrift Shoppe in Markdale has been a pillar of the Grey Highlands community since 1953. Run by volunteers and through community donations, the store has been offering various items for sale including clothing, toys and appliances.
Pennywise has been operating out of the building connected to the former Center Grey General Hospital, for which, in its 71 years, the store has raised over one million dollars. Following the closure of the former Hospital in Markdale in late October of 2023, the property had two break-ins, during which various tools and copper pipes were stolen. As a result of this outrageous theft, the water supply in the Pennywise location was severed and the facility was deemed unsuitable for business operations.
A new location in Markdale has been found and Pennywise hopes to restart its operations in the near future. The store will be relocating to downtown Markdale, 11 Main Street East, the former toy store Pj Nickerbockers.
To support the reopening and renovations, Chapman’s Ice Cream donated $5,000 towards the new location.
“Pennywise has been an important part of Markdale ever since I can remember,” said Ashley Chapman, Chief Operating Officer of Chapman’s Ice Cream. “The dedication of the Hospital Auxiliary and its volunteers to helping the people of this community is incredible, and their contribution towards the hospital is invaluable. Donating to Pennywise is directly supporting our community, and we couldn’t be happier to help them with this transition.”
The Auxiliary hopes for the community’s support to raise the remaining money required to complete the move.
“The next stage for Pennywise is to maintain or grow the business and still continue to give for hospital equipment,” said Verna Miller, adding “To do this we have to increase our roster of volunteers.”
For more information about Hospital Auxiliary and Pennywise Thrift Shoppe, contact mverna@gmail.com.
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