BMU’s Bucks Boutique, a community resource for families, has been rebranded as a free thrift store. This year, the school decided to change the way it runs the Bucks Boutique so that people will feel more comfortable accessing essential clothing and school supplies. Additionally, the Bucks Boutique is open to anyone who would like to use it to “go shopping” for something that catches their eye. Mrs. Knisley, Principal of BMU, shared that “it’s open to anyone; it’s not necessarily related to need or emergency.”
According to Marisa Craige, who is in charge of the new thrift store, the Bucks Boutique wants to ensure that all families in the community get what they need. To that end, they made it “more of an accessible space and something that all students feel comfortable using.” She explained that their purpose was to get rid of the stigma behind needing assistance and to make the space one where everybody would feel safe and welcome.
Another thing that’s different this year, according to Mrs. Knisley, is that the Bucks Boutique is “more organized and user friendly.” Craige shared that the inventory comes from donations from staff, students, or community members. They have clothing for every size, starting at an XS and going up to adult plus sizes. Their inventory changes pretty consistently, and there is an overhaul every season.
Since changing the way the Bucks Boutique runs, interest has increased. Marisa commented that “In the month of September, we had 187 items of clothing that went from the Bucks Boutique into our student’s hands,” which is pretty significant compared to previous years.
If you would like to get clothes from the Bucks Boutique, there are multiple ways to shop. First, they have a rack of clothing in the entryway. The inventory on this rack updates weekly. A larger assortment of clothing is available on the stage; visit the Main Office for access. They are also hoping to host clothing events for people in the community who might not spend time in our school. Additionally, they plan on holding a clothing swap. Another way to get in contact with the Bucks Boutique is to email Marisa Craige at [email protected] or call the Main Office at Blue Mountain School at 802-757-2711.
