The Georgette in downtown Vernon is more than a thrift store.

Sure, it has donated clothes and some new items at rock-bottom prices, but more important than the sales is the social environment it creates.

The Georgette is operated by the Vernon branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association. Money raised from the store at 3100 28th Ave. goes to support various local programs, but that is secondary to its main function.

“The social aspect is the most important aspect of the Georgette Thrift Show,” said Art Harrigan, volunteer co-ordinator. “The social aspect is the most important because most of our clients have health issues that prevent them from working full time or even part time so we have a very supportive system.

“It's more like them coming to a place that is almost like a home. They consider this family and it's really a wonderful opportunity for them.”

Of the 50 volunteers that work at the store, half are CMHA clients. The others are people who simply want to help out.

And that is what Anne Kopp has been doing for the past 48 years.

“I love to work here. Everybody seems to be a friend here and it's something we need,” said Kopp. “I love coming here, it is the highlight of my week. I have lovely, lovely friends here.”

Harrigan said many of the items at the store are donated from the public, but they also have lots of new items donated from area retail businesses.

The Vernon branch of the CMHA helps roughly 600 people a month.