The Party Shop in Cameron Village has been a neighborhood staple for over 57 years. For 35 of those years, Cora Smith has owned the 6,000 square foot shop and greeted shoppers in search of all things party-related.
After three decades in business, Cora has decided to close the Party Shop’s doors, but not before making one last contribution to the Raleigh community. Cora has graciously decided to donate the Shop’s remaining inventory along with all of the store’s fixtures, to the Raleigh Rescue Mission Store and Donation Center (part of Raleigh Rescue Mission). The Rescue Mission Store is currently selling the party supplies and profits from the sales will go towards the Mission’s life-changing programs. Fixtures from the Party Shop will be shared with other local nonprofit organizations that partner with the Mission.
When Mrs. Smith was asked why she chose to donate the Shop’s contents to the Raleigh Rescue Mission Store and Donation Center, she explained, “Well, I was familiar with the Mission and the work that they do. We employed clients from the Mission at the Party Shop over the years. When it was time to close the shop, I had heard wonderful things about Ronstadt Manuel (Raleigh Rescue Mission’s Store and Donation Center Manager) and his ability to make the most of my remaining inventory. So, I called him up and he has been incredibly patient with me and meticulous in his plans for packing up the shop.”