Gifts that Give Back: a purchase from 2nd helpings

2nd helpings is one of Roanoke's hidden treasures. It surprises me to find out that either 1) people haven't heard of 2nd helpings, or 2) people haven't visited. For those of you who live in the Roanoke Valley, purchasing a gift from 2nd helpings is a great way to give back to your local community. Because the business is owned by the Rescue Mission of Roanoke, the profits earned help provide shelter, food and medical care for the homeless and recovering addicts.

2nd helpings is a unique place. It features an upscale resale shop, an art gallery featuring local artists and a cafe featuring delicious food. You can feel good about making a purchase at 2nd helpings because you will receive a unique item plus help support the homeless.

Want to know how the Rescue Mission helps those in need? Take a look at these statistics from 2010. Then browse some pictures from the gallery, shop and cafe below.

Meals served: 320,917
Clothing & Furniture Help provided for Families: 24,845
Nights of Shelter: 112,267
Volunteer Hours: 82,969
Professions of Faith: 808
Family Shelter Classes: 679 hours
Recovery Classes: 17,271
Learning Center Classes: 8,212
Clinic Patient Visits: 14,004
Value of Healthcare Provided: $2,306,190
Case Management Visits: 4,989
Legal Clinic Visits: 30
Toured the Mission: 3,435

I've got quite a wish list at the 2nd helpings art gallery. They have such a variety of art that you are sure to find something you love!

From the print bins:



Stained glass:



Pottery:


Mixed Media:


You never know what you might find at the 2nd helpings upscale resale shop.







The cafe also has a variety of food to satisfy your appetite.