Shop for a Cause: Basic Needs Holiday Sale Returns Nov. 6-8

STEPHENVILLE, Texas - The Graham Street Church of Christ Basic Needs Ministry will host its annual Holiday Garage Sale on Thursday and Friday, November 6-7 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, November 8 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will take place at the Graham Street Family Center, 375 N. Graham Street.

The November Holiday Sale is the ministry’s largest fundraiser each year, with all proceeds going directly back into the Erath County community. The funds raised act as the operational budget for the Basic Needs Ministry, allowing them to continue their mission of helping local residents facing financial and personal hardships.

A Mission That Gives Back

The Basic Needs Ministry holds two major garage sales each year, one in May and one in November. The holiday sale plays a vital role in supporting the ministry’s outreach programs, which include covering medical co-pays, assisting with prescription costs, helping pay utility bills, and providing clothing for job interviews and new employment so individuals can regain independence and stability.

The ministry also keeps essential items on hand for families facing total loss situations such as fires, providing clothing, dishes, linens, furniture, and other household necessities to help them start over after disaster.

“We try to turn good quality donated items that are unusable by our everyday clients into money that can be used for something more needed in the community,” said Basic Needs staff member Deborah Swanson.

What You’ll Find

The sale will feature hundreds of items donated by the community throughout the year, everything from furniture, housewares, and décor to toys, holiday wear, and even Christmas trees. Many church members donate larger pieces like furniture and appliances specifically for this event.

Deborah Swanson with Basic Needs is encouraging everyone to stop by, saying, “We encourage the community to come see what we have that they just can’t live without.”

Swanson added that proceeds also help stock the Basic Needs Food Pantry, which provides groceries to families in need throughout the year.

Special Holiday Section

This year’s sale will include a dedicated Christmas Store area, featuring holiday gifts, decorations, and festive clothing, perfect for those looking to start their holiday shopping early.

Shoppers are kindly asked to bring smaller bills, especially on Thursday, as the ministry will have limited change for large bills during the first day of the sale.

Photo of past Garage Sale

How to Donate

Donations for the garage sale are accepted at Basic Needs, 313 N. Belknap Street in Stephenville, during regular hours on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday.

After-hours clothing donations can be placed in the drop box, and larger items can be left on the pallet beside the box. They ask all donations to be dropped off 1 week prior to the garage sale.

For questions or updates, contact Basic Needs at (254) 965-5552 or visit their Facebook page for the latest information.