Contributor: Jamie Richardson
đź“Ť 74 Spring St SW, Concord, NC 28025
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Downtown Concord has opened its doors to an exciting new shop with a purpose, Restoration Market. This boutique-style thrift store blends affordable shopping with a mission of great social impact. This new shop is about more than just fashion—it’s about restoring lives, with proceeds supporting Present Age Ministries’ (PAM) fight against the sexual abuse, exploitation, and trafficking of teen girls.
Photo credit: Restoration Market
Photo credit: Downtown Concord
The Vision: A Decade in the Making
The vision for Restoration Market started over a decade ago when Hannah Arrowood, founder of Present Age Ministries, visited a similar store in another state. She saw the potential in creating a trendy resale market that would appeal to all ages while supporting a cause.
- Her idea had a two-fold purpose: to engage the community with affordable fashion while generating sustainable, non-donor-based revenue to fund Present Age Ministries’ critical work.
However, just like the slow and thoughtful restoration of Downtown Concord, Hannah trusted in God’s timing. She patiently waited for the right space and the right moment to bring Restoration Market to life—and that time has come. As new businesses breathe life into Downtown Concord, Restoration Market has opened, providing not just clothes but also hope and healing for those affected by human trafficking.
Photo credits: Restoration Market
Not Your Typical Thrift Store
This isn’t your typical thrift store; Hannah and her team have worked to create a space that feels stylish and inviting, welcoming shoppers across generations. Restoration Market offers a carefully curated selection of gently used women’s clothing, accessories, and shoes, along with handmade items from survivors.
The fashionable, budget-friendly pieces available give new life to your wardrobe while giving new hope to those in need. Whether you’re looking for a new outfit, handbag, or a pair of stylish shoes, you can shop with the knowledge that every purchase supports a life-changing cause.
Not only will the market provide fashion-forward finds, but it will also serve as a space for donations. Instead of tossing out old clothes, you can give them new life at Restoration Market. Any items that cannot be sold locally will be shipped abroad to support Present Age Ministries’ international outreach efforts.
A Mission-Driven Market
The heart of Restoration Market lies in its mission. Every purchase, every donation, and every volunteer hour helps fund the life-saving work of Present Age Ministries. As Hannah Arrowood puts it, “We’ve seen the miracles of restoration. But how can buying a shirt restore a life?” The answer lies in the collective power of community support, where even the smallest act—like purchasing a scarf or donating shoes—can contribute to the restoration of lives.
Who is Present Age Ministries?
Present Age Ministries is a 501(c)3 nonprofit dedicated to combating the sexual abuse, exploitation, and trafficking of teen girls. Their mission is two-fold: to equip communities to identify at-risk teens through education and prevention programs, and to support survivors with individualized, holistic care.
Human trafficking is a growing issue in the United States, with an average victim age of just 15 years old. Many of these girls are recruited online with promises of love or a better life. Present Age Ministries works tirelessly to combat these recruitment tactics and provide survivors with the support they need to rebuild their lives. Under the leadership of Hannah, PAM has earned numerous awards for its dedication to this cause, including national and international recognition for its counter-trafficking efforts.
With the support of Restoration Market, PAM’s reach can grow further. Funds raised through sales will enable the nonprofit to continue its local and international projects, including those in Kenya, Nicaragua, and Thailand.
Photo credits: Present Age Ministries
How to Support Restoration Market
With Restoration Market now open to the public, you can support the mission in several ways. First of all, stop by and shop!! Donations of gently used women’s clothing, accessories, and shoes are also always welcome. Volunteers are needed to help sort, prep, and display items, ensuring the store makes an impact in the community. If you’re passionate about making a difference, Restoration Market offers a meaningful way to contribute your time and talents.
With hopes to expand into men’s and kids’ sections down the line, Restoration Market is just getting started. As the surrounding Downtown Concord continues to transform, Restoration Market’s presence will be a reminder of the power of renewal—from community streets to individual lives.
Planning to visit? Tell ’em Cabarrus Weekly sent ya!
