The Madison County Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Purchase for a Purpose on December 18, 2023. Located on Highway 00 in the renovated bowling alley building, this new retail outlet officially opened its doors on November 6, 2023. The store offers a variety of new products at discounted prices and aims to provide employment opportunities for individuals with varying abilities, enhancing their quality of life.
During the ceremony, Chris Reagan, founder of Purchase for a Purpose, welcomed guests and provided a tour of the facility. He highlighted the store’s mission and introduced notable attendees, including Missouri State Representative Dale Wright of the 116th District and Missouri State Representative Tony Harbison of the 144th District. Also present was Jody Williams from U.S. Congressman Jason Smith’s office.
Following the ribbon-cutting, Reagan led the representatives on a tour of several local facilities, beginning with the Fredericktown Senior Center. Director Crystal Sherrick explained the center’s current budget challenges, noting that the cost per meal is $9.23, while they only receive $6.00 per meal in funding. Local businesses have supported operations during this time, allowing the center to remain open while seeking a long-term solution. A festive atmosphere was enhanced by a surprise visit from Santa Claus, who engaged with attendees.
The tour continued to the Madison County Workshop, where Debby Boone provided insights into the thriving business model that has been developed there. Boone, along with co-manager Diana McDaniel, has organized the workshop and thrift store into a well-structured operation. Employees have fostered a sense of community and camaraderie, contributing to the workshop’s success.
Next, the group visited Wagner Residential Care, where owner Teena Wagner welcomed them. Residents were in high spirits as they prepared for a Christmas party later that evening. Wagner guided the representatives through the facility, discussing both the challenges and achievements experienced in providing care.
The final stop on the tour was Madison County Recovery Allies, where Executive Director Karen Moser and Outreach Director Karen Whitener outlined the organization’s positive impact over its three years of operation. They reported a decrease in overdose cases in local emergency rooms, attributing part of this success to funding received from the Opioid Crisis Funds allocated to Madison County. The representatives discussed the ongoing need for additional funding to support their mission of reuniting parents with their children and fostering healthier lives.
Each facility visited during the tour exemplifies a commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals in Madison County. The event offered representatives a firsthand look at the compassionate efforts of local organizations and the pressing needs they face.
