Annie's Attic sale to benefit Project Hope
Annie's Attic, one of the biggest fundraising sales in the Northwest suburbs, will hold its 17th event June 25-27 at St. Anne Church in Barrington - 25,000 square feet of toys, furniture, housewares, clothing and even vehicles.
All proceeds benefit Project Hope, which has been providing emergency assistance to area families in crisis since 1986.
"We're anticipating and hoping for a big turnout," said Sr. Lorraine Menheer, director of Pastoral Care and Project Hope. "Not only because more people are looking for bargains in the current economy, but also because more families than ever are in need of short-term assistance from Project Hope to regain self-sufficiency and hope."
A core committee has been at work over the past year, while hundreds of volunteers have been on board for a couple weeks. Last year more than 9,000 hours were logged in the effort.
"Our volunteers really make the magic happen", said Barb Brunka, volunteer coordinator. "We're especially proud of our teen volunteers -- over 400 joined us last year from 17 area schools."
"We are also blessed with very generous donor support," added Colleen Dunkel, event chairman.
Shoes to sofas, glassware to golf clubs, all are available.
"We've seen it all," said Dunkel. "Among last year's sale highlights were a mint condition BMW SUV, a vintage pearl-encrusted pillbox hat autographed by Liberace and a limited edition NASCAR-style go cart."
This year, she said, there's a Honda motorcycle, a mahogany dining room set and some "really fun outdoor furniture."
A special boutique will showcase antiques, designer clothing and collectibles.
Many local businesses are perennial supporters of the sale, providing assistance with event logistics and promotion. Larger retailers like Nordstrom Rack and Kohl's have joined in, along with Underwriters Laboratories who partnered with Project Hope to expand its own charitable initiatives.
Friday will feature a special 50 percent off sale starting at 5 p.m. in selected areas, including furniture. The bargain hunting hits fever pitch on Saturday with a $3 per bag sale and negotiable prices on remaining furniture. Maps are provided and plenty of volunteers are on hand to assist. A bake sale, cafe and other concessions will also be held.
Annie's Attic sale
June 25-27 on the campus of St. Anne Church, Franklin and Ela Streets, Barrington.
• Hours: 4-8 p.m. Thursday; 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m.-noon Saturday.
• Parking: Free.
• Strollers: Discouraged. (Will not be admitted to certain areas of the sale).
• Entry fee: $5 Thursday* (12 & under free); all admission free Friday and Saturday.
• Directions, details: Project Hope at (847) 381-5721 or www.anniesatticinfo.org.
* Benefits the St. Anne Food Pantry