ABOVE VIDEO: Chief Mike Cantaloupe announces the official grand opening of the department’s non-profit thrift store on Saturday, October 10 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
BREVARD COUNTY • COCOA, FLORIDA – Chief Mike Cantaloupe announces the official grand opening of the department’s non-profit thrift store on Saturday, October 10 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
The Cocoa Community First Thrift Shop is located in the Byrd Plaza at 801 Dixon Blvd. The grand opening event will feature the Cocoa Community First Community Resource mobile unit where officers will showcase the department’s outreach program and offer free popcorn and snow-cones.
Inside the store will be a host of quality donated items to choose from for purchase including clothing, household items, sporting equipment, art and more.
The proceeds from all sales benefit the Cocoa Police Department’s youth and community outreach programs including the Police Athletic League, the annual Christmas Toy Drive, Shop with a Cop, Cops and Kids youth summer camp and many others.
Michael Cantaloupe
“Our officers came up with the idea of a non-profit to help support and fund these outreach programs on a regular basis,” Chief Mike Cantaloupe said.
“These programs are so important for our kids and our community and the thrift shop gives us a steady funding source. We encourage everyone to join us in celebrating this grand opening.”
The Cocoa Community First Thrift store was made possible with the help of countless volunteers and business partners including the owner of Byrd Plaza who donated the space for the store.
Officers with the Community Resource Unit also have office space in the back of the store.
“This is a win-win for us because it not only provides a revenue stream for our programs, but also allows our officers to be closer to the community they serve,” Chief Cantaloupe added.
Donations are always accepted during regular store hours which are Monday-Friday 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
You may also call the shop at 321-877-2892 to make arrangement to pick up donated items. Anyone interested in volunteering may contact the shop to inquire and apply.
