Most of us have boxes of old clothing, accessories and knick knacks stored away in basements, garages or attics. Instead of one trying to get rid of it by him- or herself, a Georgiana businessman offers the community a way to unload all their unwanted items, as well as help those less fortunate in the area.

Randy Barlow, finance manager for The Furniture Den in Georgiana, has recently opened Peddlers, a conscription shop in the downtown area next to the furniture store.

Barlow said he takes any items people do not want anymore, such as clothing in good condition, shoes, decorative items and much more.

The proceeds from selling the items will be donated to area benevolent organizations, such as churches and other charitable groups and to help the needy in the area.

Barlow said aside from helping those less fortunate in and around Georgiana, the shop can also help the city itself.

"We thought it would be something good to help those who are needy in the area, but we also thought it would draw more attention to the downtown area and increase the traffic here," he said.

Those who would like to give unwanted items have the option of donating them to the store or consigning them. If opting for consignment, all the items will be marked with a number and Bartlow will send a check at the end of each month for 50 percent of what has been sold to the original owners.

Barlow said he has received many positive comments, as well as donations of items, from people in the community and expected the shop to do well in the future.

"It's been a lot of fun going through bags of stuff, which gives us something to do when we're slow in the furniture store," Barlow said. "People should enjoy coming here are receiving good bargains without paying too much."

Paulette Barlow, Randy's mother, said she believes the store should do well because of the increased population in the area, as well as the good bargains on name brand clothing and other items.

"There're not that many clothing stores in Georgiana, and our prices are very affordable," she said.

Peddlers is located in downtown Georgiana next to The Furniture Den and is open Tuesday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. If interested in offering donations or conscriptions, call (334) 376-5462 for information.