In the early 1980’s, Lake Placid had an underserved population of residents facing economic challenges. Many were seasonal workers dependent on tourism for income, and during off-peak months they struggled to make ends meet. A few concerned individuals began conversations with the local ministries about how they could address local food insecurities. The Ecumenical Charity Program, along with its food pantry, was born from these conversations in 1985. Initially, the program’s scope was modest, to help individuals and families who were facing financial difficulties, offering both direct support and access to resources to meet basic needs.
Providing food was just one part of the equation. To truly help people achieve long-term stability, the ECP needed to offer more comprehensive support. In February of 1990, this same group of dedicated volunteers opened Helping Hands Thrift Shop. Helping Hands resold gently used donated items. The thrift shop be- came a key component of the food pantry’s funding strategy, generating modest revenue to supplement donations.
After 31 years in the same location, the building that housed the thrift shop, generously donated by the Lussi family, needed repairs that were beyond the financial scope of the ECP. Without an alternative location, the thrift shop had no choice but to shut its doors. At the same time, the food pantry, which had been in the basement of St. Agnes Church since its beginning, was facing a shortage of space and accessibility issues. The driving force behind combining the food pantry and thrift shop was a deep commitment to addressing the broader needs of the community in a holistic, sustainable way.
The first meeting of an ad hoc committee to secure a new building was January 25, 2024. They met with a shared purpose of hope and a sense of urgency. The collaboration of the Adirondack Foundation, the Lake Placid Central School District, Homestead Development, Simplex Homes, the Town of North Elba, the Village of Lake Placid and many dedicated community members have brought us here today. Lake Placid Thrive & Thrift will transform the way these services engage our community, becoming a more visible resource for those in need. The evolution of Lake Placid Thrive & Thrift is a testament to the dedication and hard work of countless volunteers, donors, and community leaders who have support ed the program since its inception. What began as a small, grassroots initiative in the basement of St. Agnes Church has evolved into a thriving, multifaceted organization that plays a central role in promoting community well-being.
