Diakonia hosts Christmas in July event

OCEAN CITY, Md – The Diakonia thrift store hosted its 15th annual Christmas in July event, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the event.

Diakonia is Greek for ‘in service to others’ and Staff member John Liddi said it’s important to be self-aware of where you come from, “We live out here, we have good lives and don’t have trouble putting food on our table, or a roof over our heads, but that’s not the case for everybody.” said Liddi.

The store emphasizes taking in goods in coordination with the Diakonia homeless shelter, and thrift store manager, Dawn Wise said the store has a little bit of everything, “People that are just starting or do not have the money to spend to buy new furniture, or they’re leaving the shelter and need to get sofas, dishes, I mean we carry everything.” said Wise.

Some homeless individuals who leave the Diakonia shelter are not fully capable, but Liddi said, that’s where the thrift store comes in, to help them transition to a better life. “There are two ways we benefit the homeless, number 1 we make money for the homeless shelter, and number two we provide goods for them, when there back on their feet and when they’re ready to get back on their own. said Liddi.

Diakonia has a ton of help, with volunteers and Wise said, “We just really want to sincerely thank our volunteers because without them we could never do this, they are so hard-working and happy.”

You can donate to Diakonia at any time, and if you need more information, visit here.