The Helpful Hand Christian-based thrift store held a grand opening March 14 at their new location at 810 Sparkman St. in downtown Hartselle. Pictured are manager Gwendolyn J. Griffin, left, and new owner Clylessa Cartwright. | Special to the Enquirer

The Helpful Hand Christian-based thrift store has been in Hartselle since 2009, but they have recently moved into a new location at 810 Sparkman St. downtown.

The organization is a branch of Orr Ministries in Oakville, and they strive to meet the needs of the community.

Helpful Hand provides blankets and care packages for the homeless and necessary items to victims of fire and storm damaged homes, according to manager Gwendolyn J. Griffin.

“We accept both monetary and used item donations for us to give to those in need,” Cartwright said. “I started the Helpful Hand after being an evangelist and hearing from those in need about how much trouble they had with other places and about the run-around they got from people who said they would help them. I decided to help people without all the hassle. If there’s anyone who needs some help, send them my way, and we will help them.”

They also serve Thanksgiving dinner to those in Morgan and Lawrence counties and anyone else in need. Donators are given proof of their tax-deductible goods and monetary offerings.

Griffin has lived in Hartselle for 22 years, and the Helpful Hand has previously been located on U.S. 31 South in the Tanner Heights Plaza Shopping Center and at 706 Nanceford Road on the corner of Barkley Bridge Road.

The shop’s new owner is Clylessa Cartwright, and they held a grand opening at their new location Sat., March 14.