Everyone loves a bargain. And there is even more to love when 100 percent of the proceeds from a great deal support a good cause. That is probably why so many bargain hunters in Pekin and surrounding communities have loved Nearly Nu, 1017 Derby St. in Pekin, since 1971.

Nearly Nu is a thrift shop, and as such, it offers “gently used” clothing, household items, shoes, books, toys, and gift items in a clean, attractive retail environment. The shop is staffed by volunteers who assist customers and accept donations during regular business hours. The shop does not accept televisions, computers, or other electronic devices.

Since its inception more than 50 years ago, Nearly Nu has been operated by the Pekin Hospital League, a nonprofit with about 60 active members in the Pekin area. Up until 2023, the Pekin Hospital League raised funds exclusively to support programs and services at Pekin Hospital, now Carle Health Pekin Hospital.

Susan McCabe, president of the Pekin Hospital League and one of four coordinators of the thrift shop, said the organization has now joined with Carle Health Methodist and Carle Health Proctor, to donate funds from Nearly Nu and the gift shop at Carle Health Pekin Hospital to the upkeep and programs at Trillium Place Young Minds Center in Peoria. Affiliated with Carle Health, the Young Minds Center is a safe, supportive place for young people to receive compassionate help for mental health and behavioral health concerns. McCabe said it is the only facility of its kind between Chicago and St. Louis.

McCabe said generations of bargain hunters have shopped at Nearly Nu for its wide selection of merchandise, affordable pricing, and the friendly, welcoming staff. Unlike some thrift shops, she said all workers at Nearly Nu are unpaid — they volunteer their time as part of their commitment to the work of the Pekin Hospital League. A few have volunteered for more than 50 years. No high salaries and low overhead allow the store to maximize its donations to help kids and their families.

In addition to Nearly Nu and the hospital gift shop, the Pekin Hospital League organizes a pre-holiday gift sale every year in November, with proceed also going to the Young Minds Center. Last year, that event alone raised $25,000.

Nearly Nu is open Tuesday through Friday, 10am to 4pm, and Saturday from 10am to 2pm. To inquire about becoming a member of the Pekin Hospital League or to check whether an item is acceptable at the shop, call 309-347-8451.