Large consignment sale wraps up Saturday in Visalia | ABC30 Fresno

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By ABC30

Saturday, September 19, 2009

Fresno, CA Take a look around and you'll find almost everything you need if you're a mother or mother-to-be.

From cribs, toys, clothing and more. The old "Ross Dress for Less" store in the Sequoia Mall in Visalia has turned into a large consignment store for kids and mothers.

It's all part of the "just between friends" sale, a national franchised sales event, which goes on twice a year in Visalia.

Kim Colburn, Just Between Friends said: "Especially in these times with the economy and stuff that I hear a lot of times Kim this is a blessing to our family we wouldn't be able to clothe our children".

All the items are checked for recalls, they even test toys for lead. Colburn said she's seeing more women shopping the consignment sale this year when compared to last year.

Kristin Coffman, mother said: "I thought this was really cute for $3 you can't go wrong."

Kristin Coffman and Jennifer Byma couldn't resist some of the sales. They said during today's economic downturn, women are changing the way they shop.

Jennifer Byma, pregnant mother said: "A lot of our friends who aren't having kids and stuff they're all starting to go to Marshalls and thrift stores so this is like a version for us."

This year's "Just Between Friends" sale boasts roughly 60,000 items from more than 400 consignors, people who donate items and receive a percentage of the profits. As for what's left, Kim Colburn estimates about 4,000 items consignors decide not to take back after the sale, goes to local charities.

Kim Colburn said: "it's returning to the community and helping those that can't afford clothes and shoes".

This large consignment sale also brings new life into the old "Ross Dress for Less" store, which left the sequoia mall four years ago. Since then, the mall lost another anchor, Mervyn's, when it closed down last year.

Saturday is the last day for the sale. Most items will be 50-percent off.