OROVILLE – Joni Mercer moved from the west side of the state about a year ago. Now, she says, she is fulfilling a lifelong dream to open what she calls “a thrift store unlike any other,” which she did on Oct. 30.

The Cornerstone, located at 1419 Main Street in Oroville, will be open 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Mondays through Saturdays. Mercer says her goal is to offer a place for people to pick up gifts and treasures at an affordable price, but also to help enhance local ministries.

“I see this as supporting two amazing ministries in this town: Ruth’s House of Hope and Timothy’s House – Discipleship Programs,” Mercer says. “They help women and men in bondage.”

She said she feels like this is an endeavor that God wants her to undertake.

“Cornerstone will bless in so many ways,” she said. “No. 1, it’s a place to bring unused items – your clutter – and No. 2, a place to shop for cheap and inexpensive treasures.”

Mercer is originally from Hawaii, but grew up in Bothell and the North Bend area.

She also ran a successful maid business in the past.

She has a daughter, 16-year-old Keala Jackson, and 2-year-old son Scott Mercer.

Mercer says she hopes to have a Grand Opening in December that would include raffles, sales throughout the store and giveaways.