When most people think of resale or thrift stores, they picture dark, dusty, musty-smelling buildings with creaking floors. That perception quickly changes when customers step inside the new Grace Bridge Resale Store in Celina.
After operating a resale store in downtown Celina since 2011, the ministry-based nonprofit organization decided it was time to expand. The result is a brand-new facility designed to help fund the organization’s many charitable projects and initiatives. Originally founded by Carter Morris and Charles and Carol Loper, Grace Bridge came to Celina to help start a church, open a food bank, and serve residents of Celina and the surrounding communities. In 2011, they opened their first resale store and quickly realized just how great the need for assistance was. Operating out of a small leased building downtown, they used funds from the store to help people in need locally while also establishing a ministry in Uganda.
On October 25, 2025, Grace Bridge Resale Celina held its soft opening and was astounded by the community’s immediate support. Approximately 400 people waited in line for the opportunity to be among the first to shop in the new building. Marcell Timmons, Director of Retail Operations, said he was thrilled to see the excitement surrounding the new facility.
“Our community did such a great job welcoming us,” Timmons said. “And it wasn’t just new customers. We are staff-led but volunteer-driven. Without our volunteers, we simply couldn’t do what we do. They believe in our mission. Grace Bridge is a ministry-based nonprofit, and one hundred percent of the money we earn goes directly back into our ministry. While we serve more than 400 families each month through our food bank, we also have many other programs that are just as important. These ministries help so many people.”
Those programs include I Got Your Back, Bikes and Bibles for children, Neighbor to Neighbor Disaster Relief, the Grace Bridge Food Bank, Rowdy for Resale, the Grace Bridge Eye Care Center, the Reignite Hope Welding Program, and the Master Cares program, which supports families in North Texas and Uganda. While thrift stores can be found in most cities, it is rare to find one with such a dedicated mission and a proven track record of making a meaningful impact both locally and globally.
When asked what visitors can expect at the new store, Timmons was eager to elaborate. “We don’t look like a typical thrift store,” he said. “There’s an amazing mural outside and a cool western theme when you walk in. We’re so happy we were able to build this right here in our own backyard. Celina has experienced tremendous growth, and we’re excited to grow alongside the community. This truly feels like the right time. Thrifting is very trendy right now, and more people are choosing to buy secondhand. When customers walk in, they’re amazed by how organized and clean the store is, as well as our huge selection of products.”
The new store spans 21,000 square feet, allowing Grace Bridge to offer a much larger selection than ever before. “We have people who drive from far away just because of our inventory,” Timmons added. “People really understand that when they shop here, they’re helping real families. We hope more people will make secondhand their first choice.”
Volunteers and donations are always needed, and Timmons emphasized that donations are key to the organization’s success. “Donations equal hope,” he said. “Your donations truly make a difference.”
To donate, volunteer, or learn more, visit GraceBridge.us or call 214.425.9423
402 S Oklahoma Drive, Celina
"Donations equal hope. Your donations really make a difference."