Sikeston store seeks to help those in need

The Sikeston Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting recently for The Ahteel Shoppe, located at 408 S. Kingshighway. The resale store offers a full range of clothing, household items and furniture for sale to the general public at bargain and discounted prices. It also plans to use proceeds to fund programs to benefit the community. Cutting the ribbon is Leetha M. Samelton. Also attending were: Missy Marshall, director of the Sikeston Area Chamber of Commerce; Gail Emanuel, Derick Newson, Virgie Pullliam, L.D. Pulliam, William Newson, Ruth Thomas and Tommy Newson.

SIKESTON - A new Sikeston business has a big mission.

Leetha M. Samelton, president and CEO of Ahteel Corporation, has opened The Ahteel Shoppe at 408 S. Kingshighway, as a way to help fund community improvements.

"The Ahteel's Shoppe's priority is helping families in need," said Samelton. Its mission, she continued, is to prepare the "way of community improvement by providing education and outreach, promoting partnerships and collaboration and empowering family regeneration."

Using the proceeds from the sale of donated quality clothing, household items and furniture to the public at the business, Samelton's corporation will sponsor a variety of programs for residents of Southeast Missouri as well as assist other local organizations.

While the general public can shop the resale store and benefit from its low prices, Samelton said, the store will also provide directly to families in need through its Client Room. She explained clients will be referred the shop by human services organizations in the area. Specially trained volunteers will assist the clients in finding the items they most need.

As it opened, the shop was already filled with a variety of clothing, accessories and household goods. The businesswoman pointed out there is new and used clothing for men, women and children.

"You will find something here for everyone," she said.

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