In 1991, the Mental Health Association in Fulton & Montgomery Counties sponsored their first consumer run business in a little store front in Amsterdam, New York. The thrift store business, named Handy Ups N’ Downs was created to provide employment and retail training skills for individuals living with a mental illness. Quickly, Handy Ups N’ Downs gained the respect and support of the community. Today, we operate two thrift stores, one in Montgomery County and another in Fulton County. We currently have 15 paid staff members and numerous volunteers.
Handy Ups N’ Downs also provides training and work skills to special education students of the BOCES programs, and we are an approved work site for individuals completing their community service commitment. Through our individualized training program and supportive work environment, many of our staff have gained the self confidence to transition into the competitive employment field and have become independent members of the community.
Handy Ups N’ Downs receives hundreds of donations each day from our generous community. All items are carefully inspected by our staff before placing on the sales floor. We are proud to offer our customers top quality clothing and household items at incredibly low affordable prices. We in turn, give back to the community by assisting individuals who are in need. Each year we provide hundreds of families, stricken by economic hardships, the ability to select clothing and household items at no cost to them. All thrift store proceeds stay within the community.
Store Locations:
101 Guy Park Avenue
Amsterdam, NY 12010
842-2790
111 S. Comrie Avenue
Johnstown, NY 12095
736-1825
Store Manager: Debbie Miller
Assistant Manager: Jen Cassidy
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