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The HOPE Chest

"Helping Other People Excel"

About Us

The HOPE Chest of Pekin is not just a thrift store, we are a faith-based organization that exists to Help Other People Excel. We supply tangible needs to support those in crisis, living in/or bordering poverty, or experiencing a life changing event. Be sure to click the Programs and Services tab to learn more about what we offer for the community.

Our Story

The HOPE Chest, founded in 2012, is a non-profit organization and thrift store nestled in the heart of Pekin, IL. We specialize in offering a wide array of items in our shop including artwork, books, clothing, crafts, electronics, hardware, houseware, lawn decor, linens, media, purses, seasonal items, sporting goods, toys, used furniture, and vintage collectibles. With our diverse range of products, there's something for everyone at The HOPE Chest.

But our mission extends far beyond just providing affordable merchandise. At The HOPE Chest, we are dedicated to serving our community in a variety of ways. One of our key offerings is our HOPE 4 Success Back2School Backpack Program. We believe that every child deserves the tools they need to succeed in their education, regardless of their financial situation. Through this program, we distribute brand new backpacks filled with essential school supplies to students in need, ensuring they start the year off right.

Our Seeds of HOPE Program is geared to help individuals or families who are working their way out of a crisis, i.e. fire, flood, homelessness. We partner with multiple tri-county agencies and many local churches who refer clients to us. We provide clients with basic household necessities and clothing to help them get back on track FREE of charge.

The Learn-2-Earn Program is tailored to those who are looking for a little more for their household but can’t quite afford the nonessential extras. Participants can work in our thrift store or food pantry and earn credit at the minimum wage rate. This credit is used to purchase items which don’t qualify for the Seeds of HOPE program.

Recognizing the importance of addressing food insecurity, we operate the Hope Cupboard, our very own “client choice” Food Pantry. This vital resource provides individuals and families facing hunger with nourishing meals and pantry staples. We are committed to ensuring that no one in our community goes to bed hungry.

Also at The HOPE Chest, we recognize that financial hardships can often impact our furry friends as well. That's why we established Paws of Hope, a Pet Food Pantry. This initiative helps struggling pet owners keep their beloved companions fed, ensuring that no pet is left behind. We understand the deep bond between humans and animals, and we strive to support the well-being of both.

During the holiday seasons, The HOPE Chest is dedicated to spreading joy and bringing smiles to the faces of those in need with our Holiday Meals Program. We coordinate supplying the meat and the ‘extras’ to make their holiday meal tasty and nutritious. Additionally, we host a HOPE at Christmas Gift Program, where community members in need can select presents for their children, creating cherished memories and alleviating the stress of additional financial strain during this special time.

Every Wednesday, The HOPE Chest celebrates our Senior Citizens. They receive a 20% Senior Discount off their entire purchase. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, we salute and thank our Veterans with a 15% off Veteran Discount off their complete purchase. We so appreciate and recognize their service to us and our country.

Finally, our commitment to supporting the homeless population in our community is unwavering. We offer various forms of assistance, including food provisions, access to clothing and toiletries, connections to vital resources.

The HOPE Chest organization is not ‘just’ a thrift store where you can find great deals but it's also a beacon of hope and support within the community. We believe that every individual deserves the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their circumstances. Through our diverse range of programs and offerings, we aim to provide a helping hand and an open heart to all those who seek it. Join us in our mission to bring hope, compassion, and positive change to Pekin, IL, and beyond as together we Help Other People Excel.

Areas Served

Central Illinois | Tazewell County, IL | Peoria County, IL | Fulton County, IL | Logan County, IL | Mason County, IL | Pekin, IL | Peoria, IL | Springfield, IL | Woodford County, IL

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What We Offer

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Testimonials

On 4/8/2024 Chris Prather had this to say:
Payin it forward...makes the world go round! Thank you Hope Chest, 😁

On 4/6/2024 Mike Cooper had this to say:
Thank you for being there. Just got the couch I purchased. Setting up delivery was painless. And the gentlemen who delivered it was excellent. Very good experience. Thank you.

On 2/15/2024 Ed S. had this to say:
Great place to find bargains and your money is put to good use like helping those less fortunate with basic furnishings for their family. I definitely recommend stopping in.

On 2/6/2024 Jess cooper had this to say:
All employees were super busy with donations, but super helpful:)

On 1/23/2024 Susan Morgan had this to say:
Everytime i shop here i always find what i looking for

Contact Us

The HOPE Chest
1414 N 8th St Pekin, IL 61554
Phone: (309) 620-9043
Email: hopechestofpekin@yahoo.com

Our mailing address is PO Box 1331, Pekin, IL 61555-1331

Our HOPE Cupboard Food Pantry and HOPE Services plus Offices are located next door at 1416 N 8th St. Donations of gently used items may be dropped off behind the HOPE Chest by entering the alley from Amanda St., South of the Store between the hours of 9am-5pm Mon-Sat. Please do NOT leave items when store is closed.

Where To Find Us

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Payment Types Accepted

Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, Debit Cards

Our Hours

Holiday Hours May Vary. Please Call For Details.

Monday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Our Donation & Processing Center Hours | Monday through Saturday 9am to 4:45 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Our Donation & Processing Center Hours | Monday through Saturday 9am to 4:45 pm | Food Pantry Open 10am-1pm
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Our Donation & Processing Center Hours | Monday through Saturday 9am to 4:45 pm
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Our Donation & Processing Center Hours | Monday through Saturday 9am to 4:45 pm | Food Pantry Open 1pm to 3:45pm
Friday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Our Donation & Processing Center Hours | Monday through Saturday 9am to 4:45 pm
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Our Donation & Processing Center Hours | Monday through Saturday 9am to 4:45 pm

News

🎉 Exciting news from The HOPE Chest! 🌟 Get ready for our upcoming online auction, Auctions For HOPE! Stay tuned for details on how you can support our cause and bid on amazing items. Keep an eye out for updates! 💫

🐰🌷 Our Easter Meal Distribution yesterday was a HUGE success! 🌟 We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed and made it possible - special thanks to our Mayor Burress for joining us in spreading joy and kindness. Together, we distributed a total of 265 hams/meals to nearly 800 individuals in need.

This display of community support truly warms our hearts and emphasizes the spirit of giving during this special season. Let's continue to come together and make a difference in the lives of others. 🌸💖

🌟 Spread hope this Easter weekend with The HOPE Chest! 🌷 When you round up at checkout, you'll be making a difference in the lives of those less fortunate by helping us provide Easter meals for those in need. Every penny counts, so let's come together and make a real impact. Thank you for your support! 🙏

Our new store at 1414 North 8th St., Pekin, IL, 61554 is now OPEN! There is plenty of parking available. The new donation center is located behind the building & is currently operating Monday-Saturday from 9:00 am-5:00 pm.

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