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After nearly nine years at the Northwest Academy, The Mop Shop will be relocating next month. Our final distribution day in Elizabeth will be Saturday, June 10 from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon.  On behalf of all our volunteers, I would like to thank Village President Mike Dittmar and his Board, Village Clerk Karla Rolwes, former Village Clerk Barbara Brown, Norma Schwirtz, Claudia Johnson and all the Food Basket volunteers and Tracy Dahl, Director of the Northwest Special Education Cooperative for embracing The Mop Shop.  It has been a pleasure and privilege to share space with you.  Records show that 1,283 clients and family members from 10 communities within Jo Daviess County have registered at The Mop Shop.  We will continue to expand our outreach efforts as we lend a hand to those in need.  (May 2023)

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NEWS YOU CAN USE!!  Work in our new home at Lord of Love Lutheran Church continues! Walls have been prepped and painted, new shelving units have been purchased and assembled, shelf liners have arrived, some signage has been hung and moving dates have been identified!  Thanks to our volunteers and some dedicated spouses, The Mop Shop will be moving from our home in Elizabeth to our new home in Galena on Monday and Tuesday, June 26 and 27.  Our first distribution date at Lord of Love will be Saturday, July 8.  We look forward to seeing you there! (May 2023)

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BREAKING NEWS!!  SAME Day, SAME Time, SAME People, SAME Product, NEW LOCATION!!

Please follow us to our new, spacious location at Lord of Love Lutheran Church, 219 Summit Street in Galena.  We will be open from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon the second Saturday of the month.  Visit on Saturday, July 8, August 12, September 9, October 14, November 11 and December 9.  Due to construction on Highway 20, the exit to Summit Street is temporarily closed.  Please use these easy alternate routes!  We look forward to seeing you at our new location! ​

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From Highway 20 West...continue on Highway 20 to Irvine Street, just past McDonald's.  Turn right on Irvine and continue to Ridge Street.  Turn right on Ridge and right again onto Summit Street.  The Mop Shop is in Lord of Love Lutheran Church at the south end of the Galena Stauss complex.  Volunteers will be there to greet you!

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From Stagecoach Trail...Turn left on Bench Street.  Continue 1 block and turn right onto Franklin Street.  Continue to the three-way stop at the top of the hill.  At the three-way stop, turn left onto Hill Street.  Continue straight onto Ridge Street until you see Summit Street.  Turn right.  The Mop Shop is in Lord of Love Lutheran Church at the south end of the Galena Stauss complex.  Volunteers will be there to greet you!

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From Highway 20 East...Continue past Walmart and the Community Bank of Galena.  Move to the left-hand lane as you approach the three-way stop.  Continue onto Franklin Street.  You will pass the Galena schools.  Turn right onto Hill Street.  Continue straight onto Ridge Street.  Turn right onto Summit Street.  The Mop Shop is in Lord of Love Lutheran Church at the south end of the Galena Stauss complex.  Volunteers will be there to greet you! (April 2023)

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Stop by the Jo Daviess County Senior Center Expo at Elizabeth's Community Building from 9:00 am to 12 noon on Thursday, April 27.  The Mop Shop will be among 30 vendors providing information about programs and services available to county seniors!  (April 2023)

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Please join us at The Mop Shop on Saturday, April 8 between 10:00 am and 12 noon.  Spring has sprung and we're well-stocked with all the supplies you need for Spring cleaning! (April 2023)

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Volunteer Pat Alspaugh contacted Dubuque's Teresa Shelter, an extended stay residence for women and children and Maria House, a transitional residence for women striving to become self-sufficient, offering surplus robes donated to The Mop Shop by Stone Drift Spa at Eagle Ridge.  Pat delivered 20 robes of various sizes to the delight of the Director of both residences. Thank you, Pat! (March 2023)

 

The Mop Shop will be open from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon on Saturday, March 11.  Transportation is available by calling Jo Daviess County Transit at 815-777-8088.  There is a .50 roundtrip charge charge.  Please take advantage of this service!  (March 2023)

 

Brian Kelly, webmaster and cyber assistant of Elks Lodge #882 in Galena, visited The Mop Shop and presented Mindy with a most generous donation on March 3.  Many thanks to the Elks for their support...and all they do for our community.  They are among those who make Jo Daviess County the special place we all call home!  Thank you! (March 2023)

 

The Mop Shop was pleased to provide informational flyers to the Senior Resource Center in Freeport.  They have scheduled 8 outreach opportunities aimed at responding to questions from residents of Jo Daviess County.  Appointments are being held in Galena, Stockton, Hanover and Warren.  Among the topics addressed will be aging and disability benefits, Medicare and Medicaid, benefit access, Part D and general aging.  Please call 815-777-1316 or 815-235-9777 for further information. Appointments are required.  The Mop Shop serves all communities within Jo Daviess County.  New clients are always welcome! (February 2023) 

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United Way 211, a resource call line for critical services in Illinois, recently expanded its 211 call services.  The Mop Shop was selected to be included in their database.  211 is available on a 24-hour basis to provide service for the following:  food, shelter, counseling, health care, transportation, etc.  The database provides information specific to The Mop Shop including location, days and hours of operation, client eligibility and products provided.  The Mop Shop is delighted to be associated with United Way and welcomes this additional opportunity as a means of spreading the word about the service it provides within Jo Daviess County! (February 2023)

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BREAKING NEWS! TRANSPORTATION AVAILABLE!  Due to increasing calls for transportation to The Mop Shop, Jo Daviess County Transit plans to begin providing service on Saturday, January 14.  Clients in need of rides should call 815-777-8088 for further information.  There is a .50 roundtrip charge.  Please take advantage of this service!  We look forward to seeing you in the New Year! (January 2023)

 

Happy New Year!  Many thanks to Volunteer Karen Landoch for reaching out to Abbi Porter, manager of the newly renovated Stonedrift Spa at Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa.  The Spa reopened in December following a move to their new location.  New robes were purchased for use by their clients and robes used previously, washed and sanitized, were donated to The Mop Shop.  Sizes include S, M, L, XL and XXL.  The robes will be made available to clients in the New Year while supplies last.  Many thanks to Karen, her husband Tom, Eagle Ridge Resort and the staff at Stonedrift.  What a great way to start the New Year! (January 2023)

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As 2022 comes to a close, heartfelt thanks are being sent to our generous donors, our dedicated volunteers and our appreciative clients and family members.  Volunteers at The Mop Shop look forward to continuing our efforts as we flip the calendar to 2023.  Happy holidays and best wishes for a safe and healthy New Year! (December 2022) 

 

The Mop Shop will be open on Saturday, December 10, from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon.  Thanks to our generous donors, the shelves are fully stocked!  We're looking forward to seeing our many clients.  Happy holidays and best wishes for a healthy New Year! (December 2022)

 

Many thanks to the Scales Mound 4-H Club for their recent donation to The Mop Shop.  Their enclosed note read, "We respect what you do for the low income or needy individuals and families for our Jo Daviess County community."  Kudos to the students for recognizing the need to lend a hand to those less fortunate.  (November 2022)

 

Just as our outreach efforts increased, the Knights of Columbus made another very generous donation to The Mop Shop.  What perfect timing! The need for nearly all products will increase significantly. Paper towels, Dawn dish soap, toilet bowl cleaner, disinfecting wipes, laundry detergent, fabric softener and dryer sheets will fly off the shelves faster than ever.  Nearly 200 items are selected by clients each month! We couldn't meet their needs without support from our generous donors. Thank you so much! Hats off to the Knights of Columbus!  (November 2022)

 

Thanks to Ann Tracey and other members of the congregation at the Crossroads Community Church of Galena for their recent product donation to The Mop Shop.  Popular items that included paper towels, Dawn dish soap, and laundry detergent were among the many items delivered to The Mop Shop in mid-November.  Many thanks for supporting our efforts! (November 2022)

 

Conversations took place with Heidi O'Shea, social worker at Galena schools, regarding the need for cleaning supplies among school families.  Pre-packaged bags of cleaning products will be made available to those in need via the Pirate Pantry.  Mop Shop Volunteer Kris Nelson will head up the initiative.  The Mop Shop is happy to reach out to the schools to accommodate those in need.  Many thanks to Kris for taking the lead on this new outreach effort! (November 2022)

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The Mop Shop provided 450 colorful flyers to be inserted in holiday gifts bags and food baskets prepared and distributed by the Elks Club and the First Community Bank of Galena of Apple River State Bank.  Volunteers at The Mop Shop look forward to welcoming new clients and their family members in the New Year.  Many thanks to the First Community Bank and the Elks Club for sponsoring the "Brighter Christmas" initiative and helping us spread the word about The Mop Shop!  Happy holidays to all! (November 2022)

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Mindy met with 15 members of the Kiwanis Club of Galena during their October 25 meeting at Emmy Lou's Cafe.  She provided a brief historical summary of how, when and why The Mop Shop was established and explained the challenges and opportunities that occurred during COVID. We appreciate the opportunity to share the story of The Mop Shop...past, present and future...with our donors!  Many thanks to the Kiwanians! (October 2022)

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Three volunteers from The Mop Shop met with staff members at Riverview Center, a local social service agency that provides free and confidential services to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.  Pre-packaged bags that include laundry detergent, dryer sheets, bar soap, dish soap, garbage bags, Comet and some personal care items will be available to those in need. It's a pleasure and privilege to support the efforts of the staff at Riverview Center and the survivors they serve. (October 2022)

 

4-H Clubs within Jo Daviess County have extended their support of The Mop Shop since the doors opened in August of 2014.  Mindy was pleased to accept multiple large boxes of product from Angela Miller, 4-H Program Coordinator, on October 14.  Club members selected four organizations to support during the Illinois State Fair.  4-Hers collected cleaning supplies to support those served at The Mop Shop.  Paper towels, dish soap, disinfecting wipes, multi-surface cleaners, sponges, buckets, laundry detergent and dryer sheets were among the products collected.  Many thanks to the students for lending a hand to those less fortunate.  (October 2022)

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Plastic shelving in our storage room served us well for over eight years.  However, the wear and tear has taken its toll and the shelves were no longer stable as the corner reinforcement pieces cracked and ultimately broke.  Two new units, 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide, with metal frames and composite shelves, were purchased on sale.  They were assembled on site by our brother Chris during a recent visit from the west coast.  With a depth of 24 inches, we're confident the shelves will meet our needs for years to come!  Thanks for your help Chris! (October 2022)

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Mop Shop volunteer Pat Alspaugh dedicated time, attention, talent, and funds in an effort to reach out to those within Jo Daviess County who may not be familiar with The Mop Shop.  Working with a graphic designer at Staples in Dubuque, Pat had bright-colored posters printed for distribution to all the food pantries within the county.  In addition, she had 500 fliers printed to share with schools, social service agencies, the Jo Daviess County Health Department, laundromats and more.  Thank you Pat for your extraordinary commitment to helping those less fortunate. (September 2022)

 

Mindy was invited to join the nearly 130 women who participated in the Eagle I's Invitational Golf Tournament for lunch on August 9.  The Eagle I's have been generous supporters of The Mop Shop for five years.  It was a pleasure and privilege to be able to extend a personal thank you for their on-going support of our cause.  The women play a key role in making our community the special place we all call home. Thank you ladies! (August 2022)

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Happy Anniversary!  The Mop Shop opened its door on August 4, 2014.  Twenty people representing 34 family members were welcomed that first morning.  Fast-forward 8 years and eight volunteers at The Mop Shop have registered 1,201 clients and family members from 10 communities within Jo Daviess County. Generous donors from across the country...from Washington to Florida and California to Rhode Island...have supported our cause.  We couldn't do what we do without them.  Their generosity continued throughout the pandemic and for that we are all most grateful!  On January 12, 2022, we received news that approval had been granted for the establishment of a Mop Shop in a suburb of Cincinnati! That has always been our goal...that mop shops become as prolific as food pantries.  And now there are two!  (August 2022)

 

Thanks to our generous donors, shelves at The Mop Shop are fully stocked!  We look forward to seeing clients on Saturday, August 13, from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon.  For the health and safety of clients and volunteers, please wear masks when inside the building.  Thanks! (July 2022)

 

ALERT!  An auction will take place in the gym at the Northwest Academy on Saturday, July 9. While The Mop Shop will be open for clients, please be aware that the parking lot and hallways will be congested.  The check-in table will be relocated further down the hall, but Mop Shop volunteers will be on hand to provide direction.  We're looking forward to seeing you on July 9 from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon!  (June 2022)

 

BREAKING NEWS, MONDAY, JUNE 6, 2022 at NOON.  I have been advised that there will be no access to The Mop Shop on Saturday, June 11, due to an event scheduled in the gym.  For that reason, volunteers will be distributing pre-packaged bags from the lower level parking area, just outside the Food Basket. Items distributed will include paper towels, Dawn dish soap, Glade, bleach, disinfecting wipes, laundry detergent and dryer sheets.  We apologize for the inconvenience, extend heartfelt thanks to the Food Basket for their ongoing support, and look forward to seeing you on Saturday.  Please drive with care as the area will be congested.  (June 2022)

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The Mop Shop will be open on Saturday, June 11, from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon with shelves fully stocked to meet the needs of our clients.  St. Stephens Food Bank, a branch of River Bend Food Bank, will again have a variety of food available for Mop Shop clients.  We look forward to seeing you! (June 2022)

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WELCOME BACK INSIDE!  The Mop Shop will welcome clients back inside the building on Saturday, May 14, from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon!  Select 3 higher value items and 3 lower value items plus laundry detergent and fabric softener every other month.  New clients are welcome! For the health and safety of clients and volunteers, please wear masks.  We're looking forward to seeing you soon! (May 2022)

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The Mop Shop has been deep cleaned and reorganized and the shelves are fully stocked as we prepare to welcome our clients back inside the building! The shop itself has been closed for two years due to COVID, but we remained committed to meeting the needs of our clients.  Prepackaged bags and laundry detergent were distributed from various locations during the past 24 months.  We are thrilled to reopen and are eager to see our clients!  Thanks to our generous donors, clients may now choose three higher value items and three lower value items each month.  Laundry detergent and fabric softener will continue being offered every other month.  Due to space limitations inside the shop, masks will be required. The health and safety of our clients and volunteers remain our top priorities. We look forward to seeing you on May 14! (April 2022)

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Please join us on Saturday, April 9, between 10:00 am and 12:00 noon! Pre-packaged bags will be delivered to your vehicle.  Just pull up to the main entrance of the Northwest Academy and a volunteer will deliver product to you.  Plans are underway to reopen The Mop Shop on Saturday, May 14.  We are very eager to welcome you back inside the building!  Due to limited space in the waiting area as well as the shop, we ask that you wear a mask.  The health and safety of our clients and volunteers are our top priorities.  Many thanks!  (March 2022) 

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Please stop by The Mop Shop between 10:00 am and 12:00 noon on Saturday, March 12.  We will be open to provide clients with pre-packaged bags of cleaning products.  Items included change each month.  Please remain in your vehicle and a volunteer will deliver the packaged items to you.  Masks are a must!  It is our hope that clients will be able to enter The Mop Shop on May 14.  Please check the website for further details in April.  See you in March!  (February 2022)

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The Jo Daviess County Health Department has reported that the number of COVID-19 cases and contacts are the highest they have been during the pandemic.  The Mop Shop remains committed to meeting the needs of our clients in the months ahead.  Please pull up to the front entrance of the Northwest Academy and remain in your vehicle.  A volunteer will deliver a prepackaged bag to your trunk or back seat.  For the health and safety of everyone, masks are a must.  We look forward to seeing you on Saturday, February 12 between 10:00 am and 12:00 noon.  See you then!  (January 2022)

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Breaking News!  A second Mop Shop has been established in a suburb of Cincinnati, Ohio!  Karen Landoch, a volunteer at our Mop Shop, shared our story and encouraged a friend to open a Mop Shop in her community.  Approval by the administrative council at her church was granted on Wednesday, January 12!  They will start small, but space and an initial funding source have been identified.  When Missy and I established The Mop Shop seven and a half years ago, it was our hope that Mop Shops would become as prolific as food baskets...and now there are two!  I know Missy is smiling from above! (January 2022)

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According to the CDC Data, as of Thursday, December 30, 2021, Jo Daviess County had a high level of community transmission. For that reason, The Mop Shop will once again be distributing pre-packaged product.  Please feel free to visit us from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon on Saturday, January 8.  Just pull up to the main entrance doors at the Northwest Special Education Academy, remain in your vehicle, and a volunteer will be happy to deliver product to your back seat or trunk.  Masks are a must!  Please help everyone stay safe and healthy in the New Year. We hope to see you Saturday!(January 2022) 

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Volunteers at The Mop Shop welcomed 27 clients on Saturday, December 11.  In addition to the product clients selected, they were each invited to take a bag of items that generous shoppers at The Pig purchased and donated. Toothbrushes and tubes of toothpaste were available compliments of Exceptional Dentistry in Dubuque and St. Stephens Food Bank offered fresh produce including bananas, melons, grapes, and frozen meats.  Katie Greer, SNAP Outreach Coordinator with the River Bend Food Bank, was on hand to discuss the services provided and answer questions about the SNAP program.  It was a positive and productive way to bring a close to 2021!  Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.  See you on January 8, 2022! (December 2021.)

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Happy holidays!  The Mop Shop will be open on Saturday, December 11, from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon.  Thanks to Tammy Lee at Tammy's Piggly Wiggly, The Mop Shop will be giving away product bags purchased and donated by her generous shoppers while supplies last!  Bags contain two laundry detergents, Dawn dish soap, and fabric softener.  We hope to see you Saturday! (December 2021)

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Heartfelt thanks to Exceptional Dentistry in Dubuque for their generous donation of 100 toothbrushes and 100 tubes of toothpaste.  This father/daughter practice includes Drs. Murray, Berning and Oetken and a staff of exceptional professionals.  Hats off to them all for their continued interest and support! (November 2021)

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Thanks to the generosity of our many donors, The Mop Shop is reaching out to The Workshop, the Jo Daviess County Housing Authority and Riverview Center, offering products to clients served by those agencies.  Preliminary conversations are also taking place with administrators at schools in Galena, Hanover and Scales Mound.  Many thanks to those who support our efforts.  We couldn't do what we do without you!  (October 2021)

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Tammy Lee at Tammy's Piggly Wiggly, our longest and strongest advocate, began offering

prepared  bags of cleaning products for customers to purchase and donate to The Mop Shop.  The bags include our most popular items...2 laundry detergents, Dawn dish soap and dryer sheets.  Hats off to Tammy...she's a gem...always ready to lend support to community initiatives! (October 2021)

 

After distributing pre-packaged bags of product for fourteen months, volunteers at The Mop Shop are eager to welcome clients back inside the building on Saturday, September 11.  The Mop Shop will now be open the second Saturday of the month from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon.  Masks are a must!  We look forward to seeing you on September 11, October 9, November 13 and December 11.  See you then! (September 2021)

 

As of September 1, The Mop Shop began providing welcome bags to those requesting aid from the Jo Daviess County Housing Authority. We are happy to lend a hand and are eager to welcome those in need to our community.  The Mop Shop will track the recipients of the welcome bags in hopes that they register with us for continuing support.  The welcome bags include paper towels, tissue paper, Dawn dish soap, Comet cleanser and Lysol toilet bowl cleaner.  We look forward to welcoming you to The Mop Shop!  (September 2021)

 

Words of thanks were shared with members of the Eagle Is following the Eagle I Invitational at Eagle Ridge Inn on August 11, 2021.  The Eagle Is have given generously to The Mop Shop and we were delighted to participate in their event.  Over 90 energized and enthusiastic golfers braved the record setting heat and humidity!  Many thanks for your dedication to our cause.  (August 2021)

 

Happy Anniversary!  It was 7 years ago today, August 4, 2014, that The Mop Shop opened its doors!

Heartfelt thanks to the many generous donors and volunteers committed to lending a hand to those less fortunate.  We couldn't do what we do without you! (August 4, 2021)

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The Mop Shop will be open the second Saturday of the month beginning August 14, 2021.  Hours will remain the same, 10:00 am to 12:00 noon.  Pre-packaged bags and laundry detergent will be distributed from the vestibule at the Northwest Academy.  See you then! (August 2021)

 

Many thanks to the Ladies Circle and Pastor Dottie at the Schapville Zion Presbyterian Church for their interest in learning more about The Mop Shop. A delightful hour was spent sharing the story of The Mop Shop with an interested, enthusiastic and generous audience.  Thanks ladies...it was a pleasure and privilege to meet you!  (July 2021)

 

Among our youngest donors are members of the Menominee Achievers 4-H Club.  They have supported our efforts since we opened seven years ago.  Just this month, a big, BIG box of terry cloth rags was delivered to The Mop Shop.  On behalf of our 1,100 registered clients and family members and our 11 volunteers, we thank these young people and their advisor, Janet Swift.  (July 2021)

 

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!  As of August 14, The Mop Shop will be open the SECOND SATURDAY of the month from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon.  Those dates are as follow:

*Saturday, August 14, 2021

Saturday, September 11, 2021

Saturday, October 9, 2021

Saturday, November 13, 2021

Saturday, December 11, 2021

*pre-packaged bags will be distributed from the vestibule on August 14.  Clients must wear masks when they are again able to enter the building and make selections at The Mop Shop beginning September 11.  Thanks for your cooperation. The health and safety of our clients and volunteers remain our top priority. (July 2021)

 

Many thanks to the Knights of Columbus for the most generous donation made to The Mop Shop.  The Knights have been among our most dedicated supporters and advocates since we opened. We appreciate their dedication to our cause and their commitment to our community. Thank you! (July 2021)

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NEWS YOU CAN USE!  The Mop Shop will be open on Monday, July 12, from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon.  Product will be distributed from the vestibule of the Northwest Academy.  Please remain in your vehicle and pre-packaged bags will be delivered to you.  See you then! (July 2021)

 

Many thanks to Tammy Lee of Tammy's Piggly Wiggly for her continued support of The Mop Shop.  Tammy was the first to make a donation when The Mop Shop opened seven years ago.  Her generosity has continued unabated since then.  Just this month, Tammy donated 30 cases of product including 10 cases each of laundry detergent, bleach, and dish soap.  Thank you Tammy.  You are a community gem...you help make Galena the special place we all call home! (June 2021)

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IMPORTANT NOTICE!  As of August 2021, the dates of operation at The Mop Shop will change.  The Mop Shop will be open the second Saturday of the month from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon.  This time coincides with the Food Basket in Elizabeth so we hope many of our clients find it more convenient.  Dates of operation in June and July will remain the second Monday of the month, June 14 and July 12, from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon.  Please help us spread the word!  Product distribution will continue from the vestibule of the Northwest Academy until further notice.  (June 2021)

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The Mop Shop will provide pre-packaged products from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon on Monday, June 14.  Please stop by the entrance to the Northwest Academy and volunteers will deliver items to your vehicle.  Items vary each month so please come back and see us!  (May 2021)

 

The Mop Shop was delighted to be included in Apple River State Bank's recent campaign.  Local  businesses were highlighted during National Small Business Week the first week in May.  The Mop Shop is always looking for ways to spread the word about our efforts to provide cleaning supplies to those in need in Jo Daviess County.  It was reported that The Mop Shop entry reached 782 people and enjoyed 548 post engagements!  Thanks to Apple River State Bank for the opportunity to reach out and touch so many members of our community! (May 2021)

 

We look forward to seeing you at The Mop Shop on Monday, May 10 between 10:00 am and 12:00 noon.    Our volunteers will be at the main entrance of the Northwest Academy ready to deliver pre-packaged bags of product and laundry detergent to your car.  Just pull up to the front door, remain in your vehicle and product will be delivered to you!  Items in the bags change depending on product availability so please check back with us each month.  See you soon! (April 2021)

 

The Mop Shop will be providing pre-packaged product bags and laundry detergent on Monday April 12 and again on Monday, May 10 from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon.  Please mark your calendars for the second Monday of the month.  Contents of the bags change monthly as product becomes available.  Just pull up to the main entrance of the Northwest Academy and our volunteers will deliver product to your car.  We look forward to seeing you! (March 2021)

 

Heartfelt thanks to the many friends of The Mop Shop who have so generously supported our cause throughout the pandemic.  As more product becomes available without restriction, we will continue our efforts to meet the needs of our clients.  Prepackaged bags and laundry detergent will be distributed from the entry area of the Elizabeth Municipal Building on Monday, March 8 between 10:00 am and 12:00 noon.  See you then!  (February 2021)

 

The Mop Shop remains committed to meeting the needs of our clients. Thanks to our many generous donors, we have been able to do just that!  We couldn't do what we do without their continuing support.  On behalf of our eleven volunteers and 1,100 clients and family members, our heartfelt thanks.  Happy New Year!  (January 2021)

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The Mop Shop will continue efforts to meet the needs of our many clients.  In cooperation with friends at the Food Basket and Northwest Academy, we will be moving our opening dates to the SECOND Monday of the month in the New Year.  Our hours will remain the same.  We will be open from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon on Monday, January 11; Monday, February 8; and Monday, March 8, 2021.  Pre-packaged bags and laundry detergent will be distributed from the entry at the main entrance to the Municipal Building where The Mop Shop is located.  Please mark your calendars and help us spread the word!  We are looking forward to returning to our long-standing dates and location as soon as it is safe to do so.  Your health and safety, and that of our volunteers, are our top priority.  (December 2020)

 

Thanks to Ron Avery of the Avery Foundation and one of the contributors to By My Sister's Side Stories of Hope and Resilience, he and Mindy were on the air at Radio KLYV with Chris Farber on Friday, November 13.  In additional to discussing the book, Mindy also had an opportunity to share with listeners the story of The Mop Shop.  All proceeds from the sale of  By My Sister's Side go to The Mop Shop in memory of co-founder Missy Dalgarn. (November 2020)

 

Just a reminder!  Volunteers at The Mop Shop will be distributing pre-packaged bags, laundry detergent and candy canes from the Community Building on Monday, December 7, from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon.  Please drive around the Community Building and stop at the double doors on the west side of the building.  Remain in your cars and items will be added to your back seat or trunk.  See you then! (November 2020)

 

We're moving inside!  Temperatures are falling and the Northwest Academy & Special Education Cooperative, the home of The Mop Shop, remains closed to the general public. For that reason, product distribution in November and December  will be from the Elizabeth Community Building, located just across the parking lot from the school.  Clients should drive through the parking lot, circle around the Community Building and stop at the marked door on the west side of the building.  Please remain in your car, pop your trunk or unlock your rear door and volunteers will deliver pre-packaged product.  Masks are a must! We look forward to seeing you on November 2 and December 7.  Stay safe and warm in the weeks ahead! (October 2020) 

 

We hope to see you for curbside pickup on Monday, October 5 at Terrapin Park from 10:00 am to 12 noon.  We'll be waiting for you under the Park Pavilion.  Face masks are required.  Please drive around the Community Building to minimize congestion in the school parking lot.  See you on the 5th!  (September 2020)

 

The Mop Shop will open for curbside pickup on Monday, September 21.  Current clients may pick up items from the Terrapin Park pavilion from 10:00 am to 12 noon.  Face masks are required!  In order to avoid congestion in the school parking lot, please drive around the Community Building as you exit.  Hope to see you on September 21! (September 2020)

 

Mark your calendar!  The Mop Shop will be distributing pre-packaged bags and laundry detergent to current clients on Monday, August 10 from 10:00 am to 12 noon.  Please wear face coverings.  We'll be under the pavilion in Terrapin Park, just across the parking lot from the Municipal Building.  See you then! (August 2020)

 

The Mop Shop will be open for curbside service on Monday, July 20, from 10:00 am to 12 noon.  Pre-packaged bags and laundry detergent will be distributed to current clients only.  For the health and safety of all, masks are a must!  We hope to see you then!  (July 2020)

 

The Mop Shop will reopen to current clients on Monday, June 15! Pre-packaged bags and laundry detergent will be available from 10:00 am to 12 noon.  The distribution point will be outside for the health and safety of clients and volunteers.  Masks are a must! We look forward to seeing you then! (June 2020)

 

We are looking forward to reopening on Monday, June 15!  In doing so, we want to thank the many individuals, organizations and businesses that stepped up to lend a hand.  Members of the Quilters of The Territory, the Eagle Is and Susan Williams donated nearly 200 face masks; members of Have Fork Will Travel, unable to enjoy a meal out due to the Coronavirus, donated the money they would have spent to The Mop Shop and The Mop Shop received generous donations from local churches and banks.  The generosity of this community knows no bounds!  Thank you! (May 2020) 

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Although The Mop Shop planned to distribute prepackaged bags of basic supplies in May, the Governor has now extended the stay-at-home order until the end of the month.  The spread of Covid19 in Illinois continues to increase and is now expected to peak in mid-May.  Many cleaning products are out of stock locally as well as via online sources.  We will do our best to be fully stocked once we are able to fully reopen. In the meantime, please take care, be safe and stay healthy...and home. (April 24, 2020)

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We regret that The Mop Shop will remain closed throughout the month of April due to the continuing spread of the Coronavirus.  We hope to reopen in May as product becomes available.  Take care, be safe and stay healthy.  (March 2020)

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In an effort to help curb the spread of the Coronavirus, The Mop Shop will be closed for the remainder of the month of March.  We hope to reopen on Monday, April 6, but will continue to evaluate that as more information becomes available.  In the meantime, take care, be safe and stay healthy. (March 2020)

 

Many thanks to advisor Maggie Guenzler and members of Stockton Servant Leadership and the National Honor Society for collecting t-shirts and transforming them into rags for clients at The Mop Shop.  The soft, reusable and absorbent cloths are popular items among clients.  What perfect timing with spring cleaning right around the corner!  (March 2020)

 

In memory of Missy Dalgarn, co-founder of The Mop Shop, the Melissa A. Dalgarn Mop Shop Start-up Grant has been established to encourage individuals in other communities to establish their own mop shops.  It has always been the hope that mop shops will become as prevalent as food banks.  The original contention was that if people could not afford food, they likely could not afford cleaning products.  And, if they had to make a choice between the two, putting food on the table would be the understandable choice.  Two grants, in the amount of $500 each, are available in the states of Iowa and Illinois.  2020 grant applications are available now.  Please contact Mindy at melindadalgarn@aol.com for further information. (February 2020)

 

It has been great fun spreading news about The Mop Shop this month.  Meetings have been held with the Kiwanis Club, a representative from the Elks Club and members of Fortnightly, the oldest women's organization in the state of Illinois!  We appreciate the opportunity to share our story!  (February 2020) 

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A review of records from 2019 shows that donations were received from 35 businesses, civic organizations, churches, schools, banks and youth groups.  Nearly 100 individuals living in 15 states across the country...from Washington to Florida and California to Rhode Island, supported our cause!  Thanks to the many friends of The Mop Shop! (January 2020)

 

The season of giving saw an outpouring of gifts to The Mop Shop.  Friends, neighbors, businesses, banks, churches and youth groups made generous donations.  Special thanks to members of the Jo Daviess 4-H Federation who conducted a cleaning supply drive in memory of Missy, friends from Nashville, TN who sent product from CleanitSupply.com, The Libman Company in Arcola, IL that sent multiple cases of Wonder Mops and brooms and dustpans and Mary Sue Klimstra for her ongoing support.  The shelves are fully stocked as we welcome the New Year!   Thank you, thank you, thank you!  (December 2019)

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Several years ago, The Mop Shop was adopted by the Eagle I's, Eagle Ridge's Ladies Golf League.  We have appreciated their enthusiastic and generous support.  This August, over 100 ladies from the Galena community and beyond participated in their golf invitational, an annual fundraiser.  Their generous donation was presented on December 6 at the Eagle Ridge Inn.  Many thanks ladies!  (December 2019)

 

Many thanks to Galena's Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Bed and Breakfast Innkeepers of Galena for their generous donations to The Mop Shop.  It is the support of civic organizations such as these that allows The Mop  Shop to continue keeping the shelves stocked for those less fortunate in Jo Daviess County.  Thank you for your continued interest in and dedication to The Mop Shop!  (November 2019)

 

As we continue our efforts to encourage other communities to establish mop shops, stories of The Mop Shop have appeared this month in the Purdue University Retirees Association newsletter and The Chronicle Magazine at Lewis and Clark College (Portland, OR).  I'd welcome opportunities to share our story with others in hopes of meeting our ultimate goal!  (November 2019).

 

Again this year, the congregation of Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Scales Mound sponsored Trick or Treat for The Mop Shop.  This creative annual event grows in popularity each year!  Large black garbage cans with colorful signs serve as receptacles for product at five locations throughout the month of October.  Disinfecting wipes, paper towels, multi-surface cleaners, window cleaner, laundry detergent, fabric softener, mops, brooms and buckets filled my car last week!  Shelves at The Mop Shop are FULLY  stocked!  Heartfelt thanks to the congregation at Shepherd of the Hills and the many donors who gave so generously.  Special thanks to members of the congregation at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Warren who filled their can to overflowing!  (November 2019)

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In recognition of Global Handwashing Day in October, clients were invited to select one of several varieties of Soft Soap.  Celebrated each year on October 15, this year's theme is Clean Hands for All!  How fun! (October 2019)

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A story on The Mop Shop appeared in the September issue of PURA News, the electronic newsletter sent to Purdue University retirees.  It is another effort to reach out to communities at large in hopes that others will be interested in opening mop shops in their own locales.  (September 2019)

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The Mop Shop was delighted to welcome Kris Nelson to our warm and welcoming group of volunteers.  Welcome to the team Kris!   (August 2019) 

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Fill 'er up!  Thanks to a generous donor, The Mop Shop received three 25 gallon drums of laundry detergent!  Clients have been invited to bring their empty or nearly empty detergent jugs to The Mop Shop for a refill!  (August 2019)

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We had twenty-eight clients on August 5, our fifth anniversary.  When we opened our doors five years ago, we served 30-32 people each month for the first several months.  During the past three years, that number has grown to include as many as 86 clients per month.  (August 2019)

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Friends, neighbors, relatives, former colleagues, civic organizations, banks, churches and local businesses made generous donations to The Mop Shop in memory of Missy.  Our family has been overwhelmed by the many kind words of comfort and the thoughtfulness and generosity of the community.  The support has meant the world to us during this most difficult time.  (August 2019) 

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It is with overwhelming grief that I write this.  Missy, my sister, my twin, my best friend and co-founder of The Mop Shop, passed away on Friday, July 12.  It was her hope that she would live to celebrate the fifth anniversary of The Mop Shop on August 5.  Sadly, it was not meant to be.  Missy felt strongly about lending a hand to those less fortunate.  Thanks to dedicated volunteers and an extraordinarily generous community, The Mop Shop will continue to serve those in need in Jo Daviess county.  Missy was so very proud of all those associated with The Mop Shop:  the volunteers, the donors, the clients and the many friends and supporters we made during the past five years.  Our hope was that this mop shop serve as a template for others....and that mop shops become as prevalent as food pantries.  I will strive to reach that goal...it's what Missy would have wanted.  (July 2019)

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The Mop Shop tends to experience an increase in client visits during the summer months.  Last July we had a record high of 86 client visits.  This month, we welcomed 78 clients.  Thanks to our generous donors, we are able to  meet the increase in demand.  New and returning clients are always welcome! (June 2019)

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In three months, The Mop Shop will celebrate its fifth anniversary. In recognition of the occasion, clients, volunteers, donors and friends are invited to share their thoughts for publication in a special fifth year anniversary book.  Please send your comments to Mindy at melindadalgarn@aol.com by Monday, June 3.  The book will be on display at The Mop Shop throughout the month of August.  Thanks for your continued interest and support! (May 2019)

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About four times each year, The Mop Shop offers a popular item during the month that is a special give-away.  In April, 65 clients, including ten new families, were thrilled to receive a roll of paper towels.  Thanks to Tammy Lee at Piggly Wiggly for making the donation that made this possible.  She's been a steadfast supporter since we opened our doors nearly five years ago! (April 2019)

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It was a pleasure and privilege to share the story of The Mop Shop with members of the Galena Kiwanis Club on April 9.  On display were some of our most sought after products, the framed lists of donors, The Mop Shop anniversary books and our logo.  It does take  a village to make a difference and we have been blessed with dedicated volunteers and incredibly generous communities!  Hats off to the Kiwanis Club for this opportunity! (April 2019)

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As recipients of the 2016 TCEDA NonProfit Collaboration Award, we were honored to be invited to attend the 10th anniversary celebration of Northwest Illinois Economic Development (formerly Tri-County Economic Development). Lisa McCarthy, NWILED executive director, has provided outstanding leadership to existing and start-up businesses through education, demand-based programs and consulting. (March 2019)

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We were pleased to welcome Nikki Sands to The Mop Shop on Monday, February 11.  Nikki is a Child Protection Specialist with the Illinois Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS).  She was impressed with our efforts and looks forward to sharing information we provided with clients, colleagues and fellow church members. (February 2019)  

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Coats of many colors!  An incredible act of kindness and generosity occurred at The Mop Shop on Monday, December 10.  Volunteer Pat Alspaugh and her daughter Shannon Spaid made 48 winter coats available to the children of clients at TMS.  With temperatures hovering around 30 and Christmas just around the corner, the timing couldn't have been better.  Our sincere thanks to Pat, Shannon and all those who made this special delivery possible. (December 2018)

 

John Becker, a new friend of The Mop Shop, made two very generous donations through Tammy Lee at Tammy's Piggly Wiggly.  Cases of Dawn dish soap, bleach, disinfecting wipes and toilet bowl cleaner, our most sought after products, filled our car to overflowing!  Our heartfelt thanks to John and Tammy!  (December 2018)

 

What a perfectly timed surprise!  We continue to be overwhelmed by the generosity of Tammy Lee at Tammy's Piggly Wiggly in Galena.  She has been an ardent supporter of The Mop Shop since we opened our doors four years ago.  We were thrilled to receive 10 cases of laundry detergent and 10 cases of paper towels...two of our most popular commodities.  Thank you Tammy, for your consistent support of our efforts and those of so many other community organizations.  You are truly a community gem!   (November 2018)

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For the third consecutive year, members of the congregation at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Scales Mound sponsored Trick or Treat for The Mop Shop.  Creatively decorated garbage cans were placed at the church, Sullivan's in Stockton, Pat's Country Store in Scales Mound and Dollar General in Elizabeth.  Individuals were invited to purchase cleaning supplies and add them to the cans.  Once again, the event was a resounding success!  Our sincere thanks to the congregation for the time, effort and energy devoted to this project each year as well as to the many generous community members who chose to lend a hand to those in need.  We appreciate your support! (November 2018)

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Again this year, The Mop Shop was honored to receive a very generous donation from the Eagle I Invitational Golf Tournament.  Thanks ladies, for your continued support! (November 2018)

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As of October 15, 1,000 plus clients and family members have registered at The Mop Shop.  Thanks to our generous donors and welcoming volunteers for their commitment to our community.  They make it the special place we call home.  (October 2018)

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Our sincere thanks to the congregation of Trinity Lutheran Church of Derinda for their generous donation.  Their ongoing support is truly appreciated.  We have registered just shy of 1,000 clients and family members since we opened in August of 2014 and records show we average 6 new clients and 7 new family members each month.  Thanks for so generously providing for those in need. (October 2018) 

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The Mop Shop was recently invited to join the SPIDER (Service Provider Identification and Exploration Resource) database sponsored by the Department of Children and Family Services.  SPIDER is a database for youth and families in Illinois detailing information on 1,700 agencies and over 4,200 social service programs.  We are proud to be a part of this free, comprehensive service resource guide! (October 2018)

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We were delighted to welcome Congresswoman Cheri Bustos to The Mop Shop on September 17.  Missy shared our story, described our outreach efforts and acknowledged the tremendous support we receive from the community. A story of the visit by Galena Gazette reporter Dan Burke appeared in the paper on September 26.  We continue to seek opportunities to encourage others to establish mop shops in their own communities and stand ready to help in any way we can. (September 2018)

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The Mop Shop was pleased to be included in an article by Jim Winter, communications coordinator for the Galena Territory Association, that highlighted the community outreach efforts by those living in The Galena Territory.  Hats off to our nine Territory volunteers and the many residents who contribute so generously to The Mop Shop. (September 2018)

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Happy birthday to The Mop Shop!  It was four years ago this month that we opened our door!  Since then over 970 clients and family members throughout Jo Daviess County have registered.  Our volunteers now include 9 warm, welcoming individuals and the support from the community continues to overwhelm us.  Our ultimate goal continues to be that this mop shop be the first of many that open to meet the needs of those less fortunate.  (August 2018)

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Many thanks to the Galena Knights of Columbus for their continued support of The Mop Shop.  We couldn't do what we do without ongoing support for our generous community. (June 2018)

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It was another tremendously successful Share Night at Culver's.  For the third consecutive year, friends of The Mop Shop enjoyed butterburgers, salads and frozen custard!  Between the event and follow-up donations, $537 was raised.  That's a lotta mops and brooms! (May 2018)

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As a member of the Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce, The Mop Shop was once again pleased to participate in the Pot a Plant program.  Fourteen large, colorful flower pots line Main Street throughout the summer and fall. (April 2018)

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Take advantage of a creative idea!  Dr. Cluchey at Healing Waters Chiropractic is offering an exam, adjustment and laser therapy session for just $49 during  the months of March and April.  Simply take two cleaning products with you to your appointment and they will be donated to The Mop Shop!  Call 815-776-7610 to schedule your appointment today! (March 2018)

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A terrific resource was identified the first week of March!  The Mop Shop is now included on Facebook's Returning the Favor.  It's a tremendous compilation of good work being done in communities across the USA.  We're so pleased to be listed with others who reach out to make a difference.  (March 2018)

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With the New Year underway, we registered 31 new clients and family members during the first two months of 2018.  While our commitment to The Mop Shop continues, we are increasingly saddened by the growing need in our community...and others like it throughout our country.  It is our ultimate goal that this mop shop be the first mop shop.  We would welcome the opportunity to help others establish mop shops in their own communities.  (February 2018)

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Christmas brought with it gifts from friends, family, neighbors and local churches.  We couldn't do what we do without the generous support we receive during the holiday season and throughout the year.  We were overwhelmed by the gifts from those near and far.  Our heartfelt thanks to all.  (December 2017)

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The third annual Trick or Treat for The Mop Shop sponsored by Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Scales Mound was an immense success.  What a terrific job by members of the congregation!  With four collection sites, product donations were the best yet!  (November 2017)

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Dear friend Chanda Hott arrived from Champaign, IL with a trunk load of cleaning supplies for The Mop Shop.  We were thrilled to receive Dawn dish soap, multi-surface cleaner and loads of Purex laundry detergent!  How thoughtful of her to support our cause.  (October 2017)

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August was an eventful month!  In addition to celebrating the third anniversary of The Mop Shop, we were once again overwhelmed by the generosity of our friends and neighbors.  Donations were made by the Galena Elks Club, Tammy's Piggly Wiggly and the Eagle I's.  July is traditionally our busiest month so the donations couldn't have come at a better time.  Thank you, thank you, thank you! (August 2017)

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The Galena Territory Garage Sale was held on June 10.  With 47 homes on the map, it was quite a day!  Heartfelt thanks to our generous neighbors, Sharon, Linda, Becky and Dee.  What a delightful surprise when they shared the proceeds from their sale with The Mop Shop!  Another Territory resident provided us with storage shelves that proved to be a perfect fit in the storage room!  It was a great day for The Mop Shop! (June 2017)

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On Saturday, May 13, we enjoyed participating in the Adopt-A-Pot Program sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce.  As a member of the Chamber, The Mop Shop maintained a pot along Main Street from May through October.  What a colorful addition!  (May 2017)

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A great time was had by all at Culver's Share Night!  Over $660 was raised to benefit The Mop Shop.  Our sincere thanks to Culver's, our enthusiastic volunteers and the many supportive members of the community who stopped by to enjoy burgers and shakes!  (May 2017)

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Please plan to join us on Tuesday, May 2, between 4:30 and 7:30 pm for Culver's Share Night.  We hope to beat last year's $450 total!  See you there! (April 2017)

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The Mop Shop was one among 46 businesses that participated in the first-ever Business Expo at the Elizabeth Municipal Building on April 29.  With 200 attendees it was a great way to spread the word about the availability of cleaning supplies at The Mop Shop.  In keeping with our mission to promote health, home and happiness, we distributed individual packets of Wet Ones. (April 2017)

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Paula Sands Live!  A terrific day on the PSL set.  We thoroughly enjoyed sharing our story and spreading the word in hopes that other communities will establish their own mop shops.   Paula is a warm, welcoming host with a great sense of humor. (March 2017)

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We'd like to welcome Carla Petitgout, our sixth volunteer.  Welcome aboard to a special lady!

(February 2017)

 

Many thanks to our brother Chris, visiting from Seattle, for his help in dismantling shelves in our garage, moving product, reassembling shelves and restocking them!  We couldn't have done it without him! (February 2017)

 

From garage  to new storage room!  Special thanks to our neighbors at the Food Basket for dismantling hallway lockers to accommodate a new storage room.  We appreciate their willingness to share space!  (January 2017)

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We were thrilled to participate in what has become a tradition in the Galena Territory....the Holiday House Walk.  Heartfelt thanks to Jan Bye for opening her home to holiday visitors.  Over $700 was raised to benefit The Mop Shop.  That's a lotta mops and brooms!  (December 2016)

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We welcomed Pat Willy as our fifth volunteer in November.  We're fortunate to have another warm, thoughtful team member join us.  Welcome Pat!  (November 2016)

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The second annual Trick or Treat for The Mop Shop was fabulous!  Sincere thanks to Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church for sponsoring this creative event...and to the local businesses that provided drop off sites - The Galena Gazette, Pat's Country House Grocery and Apple River Bank in Elizabeth and Warren...and to those community members who donated mops, cleansers, paper towels, sponges, laundry detergent, bowl cleaner, brushes and more.  Terrific! (October 2016)

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To that kind gentleman stranger in line behind us at the Dollar Tree in La Crosse, WI...your generosity in "picking up The Mop Shop tab" left us speechless!  WOW!  Blessings to you and yours! (October 2016)

It