Lake Forest church gears up for rummage sale

First Presbyterian Church of Lake Forest will host the biggest rummage sale in its history, now entering its 64th consecutive year, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 3 at 700 N. Sheridan Road in Lake Forest.

Staffed by more than 400 volunteers, the church collects thousands of clean, usable items throughout the year from clothes and accessories to furniture, antiques, electronics, appliances, sports equipment, décor, household goods and many more.

During the year, volunteers collect, sort and organize these items to get them ready for the sale. Open to everyone, the rummage sale takes up 40,000 square feet of space inside the church and two circus tents full of sale items cover the church's parking lot.

"Rummage is a yearlong event here at First Presbyterian. It takes thousands of hours of volunteer work by hundreds of volunteers to make it such a huge success," says Jeff Howard, church elder and co-moderator of the Mission Committee and Rummage subcommittee.

"Rummage would not be possible without the tireless efforts of these volunteers."

Since its inception in 1950, this event has contributed more than $5 million to First Presbyterian's Mission program. Mission provides grants to local and global partner organizations that help: nurture faith development, pastoral care and church leadership support; empower youth and adults to achieve their potential through high-quality education; and/or meet the immediate needs of impoverished families while pursuing long-term solutions to address the effects of poverty.

"The rummage sale serves as a wonderful fellowship opportunity for church members and the community," says the Rev. Christine Chakoian, the church's senior pastor. "It also sends precious dollars to our mission partners while serving low income families. It's truly a sight to see."

On the day of the sale, shoppers can park in the Lake Forest city lots, at the Lake Forest Metra station parking lot and on the street, unless otherwise marked as a "no parking" zone. A free shuttle will pick up and drop off patrons from the city and train parking lots. Cash, check and credit cards (Visa or MasterCard) are accepted at the sale.

First Presbyterian will continue to collect donations for this year's rummage sale until April 14. Donations should be clean; free of odors, stains, tears, holes; and, if applicable, in working condition. Breakable goods should be stored in sturdy boxes and clothing in large, sturdy plastic bags.

Donation items can be dropped off at the church from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the week and 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays.

For more information about donating goods or about the rummage sale, contact the church at (847) 234-6250 or visit www.firstchurchlf.org.