Look, you’re probably already in shopping mode. And we know you love to learn about limited-time shops, sales, and any new place to explore and maybe buy yourself something you need…or don’t. And sales that contribute to a worthy cause? It’s a no brainer. That’s why we want you to know about Prime Time for the Holidays, a six-week pop-up holiday store hosted by the non-profit organization, Prime Time House, at the Pilgrim Hall auditorium at The Shrine of Lourdes in Litchfield, Connecticut.

Prime Time House is a 501(c)3 organization located in Torrington that has been serving individuals with mental illness across Northwest Connecticut for 35 years. The organization provides a supportive environment for members to live independent and productive lives to reach their highest potential. Members are referred to Prime Time House through their local social services department.

“One hundred percent of the proceeds from Prime Time for the Holidays goes towards the support of programs for our members, like social recreational programs, enhancing employability, housing assistance, wellness programs, the food pantry and daily lunches,” says Director of Development Kathi Weinstein.

The brainchild of Weinstein herself, Prime Time for The Holidays began 10 years ago. “We used to have a full-time store located in Salisbury that was successful but had started to dwindle in sales towards the end,” she explains. “So we closed it down and needed another fundraising opportunity in its place.”

“I thought to myself, ‘Why not do a six-week holiday popup and build up the excitement about it throughout the year?’” Weinstein says. And with that, her idea became reality.

Prime Time for the Holidays, operated by an all-volunteer staff, offers holiday gift ideas and decor to suit every taste and interest. “We sell antiques, collectibles, new-in-the box items, furniture, china, glassware, holiday decor, linens and bedding, kids items and more at ridiculously low prices,” Weinstein says.

If you’re mostly interested in jewelry and accessories, Prime Time for the Holidays is hosting an exclusive evening of shopping for jewelry, designer handbags and women’s accessories on Thursday, December 7 from 5 to 7 p.m. “There will be chocolate and prosecco!” Weinstein says. If you can’t make it that evening, come later — what doesn’t sell will then remain at the pop-up store for sale.

Walking around the space, you’ll see curated displays dressed up in holiday fashion. Many of the items are of high quality. “We only sell things that are in good condition — no stains or rips and nothing broken,” Weinstein says.

All of the items have been donated. The space to house the popup store is also offered gratis, allowing Prime Time House to maximize fundraising potential. “We also have a host of wonderful sponsors, including Torrington Savings Bank, and O and G Industries which offers us free storage space throughout the year to house donations until the pop-up store opens,” Weinstein says. In 2022, the net earnings from the pop-up store was in excess of $66,000 — a substantial sum that is critical in helping the organization fulfill its mission.

If you’re interested in donating items, Prime Time for the Holidays will resume accepting donations November 29, at which time items can be dropped off directly at the Pilgrim Hall auditorium at The Shrine of Lourdes. Donations can be made throughout the year by getting in touch with Kathi Weinstein via email at kweinstein@primetimehouse.org to arrange a time to meet her at the storage facility for dropoff.

Prime Time for the Holidays
Pilgrim Hall at Lourdes Shrine
50 Montfort Rd. Litchfield, CT

Saturday, November 18 through Saturday, December 30 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The store is closed Thanksgiving Day, Dec. 11-12, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

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Written by
Elyse Sadtler