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Thrift store to benefit schools

Sonoma Valley’s newest thrift store, the Republic of Thrift, will donate 100 percent of the store’s net profits to Sonoma Valley public schools. 

Republic of Thrift is located at 17496 Sonoma Highway, Sonoma (the former Shaker-Amish furniture store). The grand opening weekend takes place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, and Sunday, Feb. 5.

According to store owner Jeannette Tomany, the store will sell clothing, shoes, accessories, toys, household items, furniture and more, and Tomany is currently accepting donations.

She expects to be at the store most days preparing for the grand opening, but call 933-9850 to confirm that she will be there to accept your donation.

Tomany decided to open Republic of Thrift last year, when her son's school was feeling the pinch in funding and parents were brainstorming ways to generate much-needed cash for public schools. She had always wanted to open a thrift store, and felt that the timing was right, especially given the latest round of school budget cuts. 

“Given the start-up costs for new businesses,” said Tomany, “I expect that it may take up to a year to become profitable; however, I want to begin payouts to schools as soon as possible.”

She plans to work for free until the store generates enough revenue to provide her with a small hourly wage and pay schools. “My main motivation is to do something to help all of the K-12 children of Sonoma,” she said, “and I’m very excited because I feel that I can truly make a difference.”