Are you having trouble finding the perfect bridal accessory for your special day, or a prom dress that you can wear without worrying about others showing up at the event in the same outfit? Maybe your goal is to purchase a gift to please the person who has everything, or a fan of hard-to-find, vintage items.

No matter what you may be searching for, chances are you'll find it at the Green Caboose, a thrift shop run by the Auxiliary at Hackensack University Medical Center (HUMC). From books and old-fashioned records, to glassware and furniture, the Green Caboose has a wide array of one-of-a-kind items.

“Our merchandise offers the customer a wide selection at discount prices,” said Marie Potosnak of Hackensack, Auxiliary member and store manager. “We even have entire families who shop at our store because they find items to satisfy everyone's tastes, all in one location.”

The Green Caboose's huge inventory also offers many brand new items with their original sales tags still attached. Items for sale include:

Men's, women's, and children's clothes

Shoes

Handbags

Jewelry

Toys

A wide selection of books

Bowls

Platters

Silver items

Furniture

Merchandise is not the only thing that attracts patrons to the shop. Visitors receive personalized service that is often absent from large retail stores. “Our highest priority is customer service,” said Mrs. Potosnak. “We are always eager to answer questions and assist our customers in finding the best items to suit their needs.”

A great selection of items and superb customer service seem to be a winning combination for the Green Caboose. Through shop sales, the Auxiliary has raised more than $35,000 in the last year, which is $10,000 above its projected goal. All proceeds will help fund the John Theurer Cancer Center at HUMC, slated to open its new freestanding hospital in late fall, 2010.

The Auxiliary would like to thank the James E. Hanson Company for offering space to the Green Caboose after its original location was destroyed by a fire. The Green Caboose is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 86 Orchard Street in Hackensack. Staffed and operated by the Auxiliary and the Department of Volunteers at HUMC, the shop is always looking for new volunteers. Responsibilities include stocking shelves, arranging displays, accepting donations, and separating clothes.

For general information, or to donate or volunteer, please call 201-487-1462.