CAPE STORE PROVIDES FREE CLOTHING

The Free Store, which opened recently at 625 Broadway, is getting heavy usage.

"Clothing is available for the needy at no cost," said Ronald Robinson, manager of the facility. "We've had a lot of people come in since we opened more than a week ago."

Larry Rice, director of the New Life Evangelistic Center in St. Louis, founded the Free Store here. Rice was present Jan. 23 for the grand opening of the facility, and returned to Cape Girardeau Saturday to pass out heaters to the needy.

Rice, who works with volunteers throughout the state, has opened six Free Stores. Other facilities are located at St. Louis, Jefferson City, Columbia, Kansas City and Springfield, Mo.

The Free Store here is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

"We also accept donated clothing at the store," said Rice. "We can use all types of clothing, including coats and shoes."

Rice has also founded shelters for the homeless, including a facility at 713 Morgan Oak St. in Cape Girardeau.

Rice works with volunteers each year to help provide dinners for the needy and homeless during Easter, Mother's Day, Father's Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.