WGN Visits WINGS Resale Shops as “Tidying Up” Sparks Donations

Recently WGN visited WINGS Resale Shop to learn how Marie Kondo’s tidying up craze has positively impacted WINGS Resale store donations, ultimately providing more resources for families and individuals fleeing domestic violence.

View the full segment here.

WGN’s Erin Ivory spoke to Colleen De la Rosa, WINGS Resale Store Manager Niles. “Definitely it’s a buzz. I get a lot of commentary that ‘I’m downsizing…I have too much stuff…I really have to clean out.’” Colleen says.

Not only has the store been getting more donations, but also higher quality items. “Sales are up 40% this year over last year and that is attributable primarily due to more donations and better donations,” Rebecca Darr, WINGS CEO shares.

Resale Stores Fund Critical and Life-Saving Services

These proceeds all go directly to WINGS mission to provide housing, integrated services, education, and advocacy to end domestic violence.

As the largest provider of domestic violence services in Illinois, last year WINGS provided 1,076 people with 79,842 nights of emergency, transitional, and permanent supportive housing. Survivors receive safety, meals, and comprehensive support services to create a plan for stability.

In addition to providing this important funding source, WINGS Resale Stores provide clothing to families and individuals fleeing domestic violence with only the clothes on their backs.

WINGS Impact

WGN interviewed VersAnnette Blackman, who knows about WINGS impact first-hand.

“It was a life changing decision when I called them (WINGS)…They’ve had a huge impact on my life and also the way I see myself…I feel like the reach is far and wide, but the impact is infinite,” VersAnnette says.

Now VersAnnette gives back by teaching art therapy to WINGS participants. ”I can go into a shelter and help other women because I’ve walked the walk, and I understand what they have been through, where they’re going.”

Sparking Joy…and Transformations

While Marie Kondo’s book and Netflix series asks viewers to reflect if their items “spark joy,” WINGS is feeling the ripple effect of the community’s generosity.

As community donors are tidying up, WINGS Resale shoppers are finding bargains and ultimately empowering WINGS program participants to transform their lives.

WINGS Resale Stores

Looking to donate or shop at WINGS Resale stores:

Arlington Heights

• 1302 N. Rand Rd, Arlington Heights, IL
• 963.0861

Schaumburg

• 300 W. Golf Rd., Schaumburg, IL
• 884.7411

Niles

• 8349 W. Golf Rd, Niles, IL
• 965.1454

Hours:

Monday – Friday: 10:00am-6:00pm

Saturday: 10:00am-5:00pm

Sunday: 11:00am-5:00pm

From left to right: Rebecca Darr (WINGS CEO), Erin Ivory (WGN TV), VersAnnette Blackman (domestic abuse survivor and WINGS graduate), & Jackie Powell (WINGS Family Advocate).