Expand Kidding Around Consignment: Support Needed

This is for everyone who has said, “You need a bigger store!”

Kidding Around Consignment has always aimed to be a resource in Downtown Pittsfield by supplying families with affordable clothing, toys and baby gear. Jennifer Johnson, the founder of Kidding Around Consignment, identified a need in our community and acted upon it by opening the store in 2012. I joined her, working part-time, in 2015. I was energized by the vibe in the store: we were working with amazing people who wanted to make the world a better place. I bought the store from Jenn in 2021, and hired Emily. We work hard every day to make sure we have great products for you. I have worked in retail for years, but never experienced the number of kind, empathetic, and generous people we meet on a daily basis! I have seen parents help each other figure out how use a particular item in the store, I’ve seen consignors offer to let someone in need use their credit, I’ve witnessed people offer to help carry out a large or bulky item, that someone can’t handle alone and many more scenarios of good will!

Throughout the years, the store has grown and morphed, into an even bigger need in our community. We hear almost daily, how families can’t afford to shop other places, and they are grateful we are open.

It had been a hope of mine, to eventually expand our store, and the opportunity has presented itself! The space across the hall (formerly OP) has become available, and it has been offered to us by my awesome landlord. We have many new ideas we’d love to incorporate, such as: an area for nursing, a private fitting room, a separate room for the free/donated clothes and perhaps a maternity room again.

I have been able to create partnerships with many organizations in the area including: local schools, daycares, Berkshire Nursing Families, Berkshire Connections, the Dream Center, and more. I love being able to help others, and this job has allowed me to direct resources, to numerous different avenues. The community has amazed me over and over, with kindness and willingness to help each other.

Now I'm the one that needs your help! I am looking for some financial assistance, that will allow me to upgrade the store. Any monetary donations, will be applied to renovation costs, new fixtures, an upgrade in equipment, and moving expenses in general. Any help, shares, prayers, or thoughts are appreciated! We would also welcome physical help from volunteers during this process.

Thank you very much, for taking time to read through this, and for supporting Kidding Around C

onsignment in our future endeavors. We love our community and thank you from the bottom of our hearts!!