CHOCOLAY TOWNSHIP — A new store that helps bring products of need to the less fortunate had its grand opening Thursday.

The New Free Store just opened its doors to the public next to Lake State Industries in Chocolay Township. The non-profit store gives away clothes and linens as well as cleaning and hygiene products to families feeling a financial burden.

The old free store closed after two years of business in January, after the place that was housing them closed. Ten months later and the New Free Store is fully stocked and ready to help.

“We wanted to provide that to families so that if they needed an outfit for a job interview or were in a pinch between jobs or maybe they have chronic mental or physical disorders that make work difficult for them, that this was one less worry they had and that their money could go to the other expenses,” said Andrea Wash, the stores Marketing and Public Relations Manager.

Organizers are auctioning off an art piece by local artist Dan Cook as well as hosting a potato sausage sale to fundraise for the store.

They’re also looking for volunteers to help out during store hours. Click here for more information.