Treasures with a Purpose: The Devine Hospice Thrift Store supports the community one donation at a time
We're celebrating the stories that matter and the good things happening in Medina County, just in a new way at least for now.
Though we hit pause on printing the second issue of Medina Magazine, the stories we created are too good not to share.
So instead of shelving them, we’re bringing them directly to you — as a digital series powered by Marken Media Co.
Over the coming days, we’ll highlight the local organizations, people, and places that make Medina County special — the same way we always planned, but now with even more ways to connect, comment, and share.
This is our way of honoring the incredible work our local writers and contributors poured into these stories and continuing to spotlight the good happening right here in our community.
✍️ Written by Carrie Lyssy
📸 Photography by Marcus Buckner
The Devine Hospice Thrift Store is more than just a shop. It is a beacon of generosity, transforming lives through the power of community giving. The moment customers walk through the doors, they are met with warmth, kindness, and a sense of purpose. The shelves are stacked with carefully selected treasures, each item holding a story waiting to be discovered. The hum of conversations, the gentle chime of hangers on racks, and the laughter of volunteers create a symphony of connection and community.
A Community with Purpose
In a backroom filled with sorted donations, Phyllis Redus, Vice President; Sabrina Guerra, Store Manager; and Dennis Woody, President, reflect on the store’s mission. “This is more than a thrift store,” Guerra says. “We improve lives through community giving.” That mission is at the heart of every decision made within the store’s walls.
What started as an AARP group in the early 1990s officially branched off in 1999 as the Devine Hospice Thrift Store. Since then, it has become a cornerstone of support for the Devine community. Over the past year alone, the store has raised more than $200,000, assisting families with medical expenses, supporting local and national organizations, and even funding dental care for those in need.
Donations That Change Lives
The store is a testament to the generosity and dedication of donors, volunteers, and shoppers alike. The impact made in 2024 highlights the power of community support:
Healthcare expenses paid for local individuals: $83,310
Donations to organizations improving lives: $91,400
Six local high school seniors awarded college scholarships: $1,500 each
Volunteer hours dedicated to the mission: 13,586 hours
These numbers represent more than statistics. They tell stories of families breathing easier because medical bills were covered, students pursuing their dreams with scholarships, and a community united through acts of kindness. Every dollar raised and every volunteer hour given creates a ripple effect of good beyond the store’s walls.
Stories of Impact
Guerra recalls a moment that underscores the thrift store’s life-changing impact. Keith, a man who had endured overwhelming hardship, lost his teeth and, along with them, his confidence. When the store stepped in to cover the cost of dentures, it changed everything for him. “I was loading groceries into my car at Walmart when I heard someone calling my name,” Guerra says. “I turned around, and there he was, grinning from ear to ear. ‘Look at my teeth!’ he shouted, full of joy. That smile—it was worth everything.”
“It’s not just about thrift store items, it’s about giving people a renewed sense of dignity and hope.
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Though Keith has since passed, his story endures as a testament to the life-changing work being done at the Devine Hospice Thrift Store. “It's not just about thrift store items,” Guerra says. “It's about giving people a renewed sense of dignity and hope.”
The Heart Behind the Mission
At the helm of the store’s success is Woody, whose unwavering dedication makes a lasting impact. Guerra and Redus speak of Woody with deep admiration, describing him as the store’s heartbeat.
“Dennis has a devotion to this store like no other,” Guerra says. “He pours so much time and effort into giving back to the community. He has an incredible gift for seeing the potential in items that others might overlook.” Woody believes everything has a purpose and always finds a way to make it useful, ensuring that both people and donations are treated with care and respect.
The store thrives on the commitment of volunteers of all ages, from teenagers eager to give back to seniors like 90-year-old founder Louise Lewis. “Louise was a bit of a drill sergeant,” Redus says with a laugh. “But her vision and determination are why we're here today.”
The volunteer application process is designed to do more than gather basic information—it helps ensure that volunteers find fulfillment in their roles. By identifying individual passions and skills, the store creates an environment where volunteers feel valued and engaged. “We want everyone to find joy in what they’re doing because if they’re not enjoying it, they’re less likely to return,” Redus says. “Making sure our volunteers are happy and engaged is one of our top priorities.”
This thoughtful approach strengthens the community bonds that make the store such a special place, fostering passion, dedication, and a shared sense of purpose among everyone involved.
A Legacy of Generosity
Beyond its location at 216 S. Teel, the Devine Hospice Thrift Store extends its reach through an eBay shop, Area Thrift, and a Facebook page (@DevineHospiceThriftStore), ensuring that treasures find homes far and wide. Volunteers keep the operation running smoothly, welcoming donations on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and cash-only shoppers on Wednesdays and Fridays.
Stepping inside the Devine Hospice Thrift Store is an opportunity to be part of something greater. Every item tells a story, every purchase fuels a purpose, and every moment spent within its walls supports a mission of kindness and generosity. It’s proof of what can be accomplished when a community works together, lifting one another up every step of the way.
CARRIE LYSSY is a mom of two, coffee lover, and outdoor enthusiast, driven by faith and inspired by life’s simple joys and her love for learning about the community around her.
Devine Hospice Thrift
Shopping Hours Wednesday & Friday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Donations Accepted Mondays 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. (and during shopping hours)
216 S. Teel • Devine
830-665-4893
@devinehospicethriftstore on Facebook
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