The Parson’s Closet

Specialties

The Parson’s closet is a thrift store located in the Parsonage building of the Easthampton Congregational Church right in the center of Easthampton, Massachusetts. We offer clothing and accessories for men, women, and children, as well as housewares, toys, books, and more! All items are donated and all proceeds go toward supporting the church and the community.

Donations of gently worn items are always welcome during our business hours inside the store, or during off-​hours can be left on the side porch near the parking lot.

We are also always in need of volunteers to help out in running the store; sorting donations, restocking the store, helping customers, etc. You do not need to be a member of the church to be a volunteer.

Whether you’re interested in donating, shopping, or volunteering, we welcome you to stop in and say hi. There are always great sales and you never know just what treasures you’ll find in The Parson’s Closet!

History

Established in 2005.

The Parson’s Closet was created as a way to help both the church and the surrounding community. Maintaining such an old and historic building as the Parsonage had become expensive and the church was worried it might have to tear it down. Many ideas were thrown out for ways of saving the building, but the one that stuck was to use the space as a thrift store. This idea came from long-​time church member and former fashion merchandiser Kristine Furkey, who was then tasked with bringing her idea to fruition. After months of preparation and help from many other church members, The Parson’s Closet opened in the Spring of 2005.

Since then, business has far exceeded initial expectations and The Parson’s Closet has garnered a reputation for quality used goods, exceptional prices, orderly merchandise, and friendly staff.

Meet the Manager

Kris F.

Manager

Kris earned her B.S. in Fashion Merchandising from UMASS Amherst before going on to work for many notable retailers, including the Casual Corner Group, Inc. in Hartford, CT. In 1981, she sacrificed her career in fashion to become a stay at home mom, but eventually went back to school for education and was a teacher in Holyoke, MA for many years. During that time, she set up and managed The Parson’s Closet entirely as a volunteer, until she retired from teaching in 2008. She now dedicates even more time to the store and can be seen there during most business hours either behind the counter or in the back sorting and tagging merchandise. Kris has been an Easthampton resident for over 40 years and a dedicated member of the Congregational Church for over 30.