Hospital gift shop features new items
Harrison News-Herald Reporter
CADIZ — The Harrison WVU Medicine/Harrison Community Hospital Women’s Auxillary has been in existence for many years.
Although now down to under 10 members, the group continues to serve in the community. A few years ago, they donated money to the hospital to redo several of the rooms, something that is still in the process. Another service is running the gift shop in the hospital.
Members Joyce Klingler and Nan Mattern have been helping in the shop for years and both enjoy the work. Currently, Klingler and Mattern go out to warehouses and shops to personally source the items. While both stated they enjoy doing so, it is something that has become increasingly difficult for them.
“Not that we mind doing that,” Klingler said. “But Nan is 88 and I’m 78.”
The shop is not just for hospital employees and visitors, there is something for everyone. From RADA cutlery to home decor, sports teams blankets to WVU shirts, and earrings to books, the shop has a little bit of everything and is always looking to expand.
Klingler stressed that the public is always welcome to come and peruse the shop. “We sell just about anything you can imagine,” she said.
Recently, the shop was emptied and new items were brought in. “Everything is new,” Klingler said. “We brought back a couple items, but the rest of it is all new. We got some new bracelets and all the signs are new.”
Klingler shared they would love to include more local vendors in the store. Not only would this be beneficial to the community by showcasing local artisans, but it would mean the two ladies would not have to travel as much to get stock for the shop.
They’re interested in just about any product that could be offered. “We would love to have local vendors,” Klingler said. “We would welcome any vendors that want to display their wares in the shop.”
If you are interested in having your products sold in the shop, contact either Klingler at 330-340-0445 or Mattern at 740-491-8136. You can also call the shop number during business hours at 740-942-8622.
Right now the shop is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It is located inside the hospital near the cafeteria. The auxiliary is always seeking new members. Klingler and Mattern both hope that if more members join, the shop can be open more often.
