PAWS fall rummage sale draws a generous crowd

By James Grob, jgrob@charlescitypress.com

When it comes to selling merchandise at a rummage sale, timing is everything.

“The Christmas village items that were not so popular in May are quite popular now, as we’re getting closer to the Christmas season,” said PAWS Director Julie Taylor. “One woman just bought about 20, so that’s great.”

Christmas and holiday fare — such as the decorative, miniature-scale villages — were among the many popular items for sale Saturday morning at the the PAWS Humane Society fall rummage sale, held at the Columbus Club in Charles City.

Taylor said other merchandise that seemed popular Saturday included various electronic items, Halloween decorations, clothing, jewelry, games, children’s books and kids’ toys and clothes.

“Baby items are always popular, and just a lot of miscellaneous things,” she said. “We also have a bag sale, where everything someone can fit in a bag goes for $5, and that’s been popular.”

The rummage sale event has gone on on twice a year, in the spring and fall, for at least 15 years. Other PAWS fundraisers include the annual dog jog — typically held in May or June — and occasionally another event.

“We do these twice a year, so these are definitely big ones for us,” Taylor said. “A lot of people are very generous. When they make a purchase they round up and let us keep the change. We really appreciate that.”

All proceeds from the sale will go to help the non-profit animal shelter, located at 303 Shaw Avenue on the east end of town.

“The funds help maintain care for the animals,” Taylor said. “We use the money to spay and neuter, for vaccinations, food and shelter.”

There was a steady stream of shoppers going in and out the door Saturday morning.

“We had a great crowd.” Taylor said. “It was lined up outside with people when we opened the doors at 8 a.m.”

Donations of items are accepted at PAWS for a few weeks before each sale, and Taylor said a lot of the same satisfied customers return to the sale time and time again.

“We get a lot of repeat people who come twice a year to the sale,” she said. “We really super-appreciate the public’s generosity, and all the donations. We appreciate everything everyone does to help us and help the animals.”