Grand Rapids is hosting the 88th annual YMCA White Elephant Sale at the former Art Van Furniture building on Alpine Avenue. The sale, organized by the YMCA Service Club, features a wide range of donated items, including patio furniture, crock pots, and many other household goods. Volunteer Jessica Melson noted the extensive variety available to shoppers, as reported by WZZM13.
The sale runs from Friday to Saturday, with an early bird hour at 8 a.m. for a $10 entry fee. After that, the sale is open to the public for free until 8 p.m. On Saturday, the sale continues from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shoppers often line up early to find great deals, including brand-new items like a 21-foot pool package sold at a fraction of its retail price.
As noted by FOX17, the funds raised from the YMCA White Elephant Sale support YMCA Camp Manitou-Lin, with proceeds going toward projects like improving the camp's waterfront to enhance accessibility for special-needs children.
Over the past 87 years, the event has contributed more than $2 million, with annual sales bringing in around $50,000, WOOD TV reported. Volunteers play a key role, organizing, pricing, and displaying donations from local businesses, estate sales, and individuals.
The sale, in its 88th iteration, is not only a testament to the community's generosity but also to the enduring spirit of the YMCA Service Club, which celebrates 100 years of service to the community and its children, according to a WZZM13 report. With deals so abundant, including corporate donations of brand-new furniture and chairs from manufacturers, the service club anticipates restocking tables throughout the first day to manage the overflowing inventory. The dedication of 140 volunteers and the spectrum of items on offer make this charitable event a staple for deal-seekers and community support alike.
