Thrift shop survives fire, offers free items

Raleigh, N.C. — One year ago a small brush fire nearly destroyed the Hidden Treasures thrift shop in Raleigh.

While playing as his favorite superhero, Superman, Caiden Towers, 4, first saw the fire inching closer to the store his mother, April Towers, manages.

“I saw the smoke coming on top of the building. That's what I saw,” Caiden told WRAL News last year. “My mom called the firemen.”

When firefighters arrived, they immediately got everyone out of the building. The fire was just feet away from the back door, but the firefighters stopped it before it got into the store.

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Little Superman fills out role as big hero

“Caiden – he saved the building,” Towers said. “We are very thankful.”

The store was just off of Capital Boulevard when the fire broke out. It has since moved to 5540 Atlantic Springs Drive.

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Thrift shop helps struggling families

The store offers low prices to help struggling families, and once every few weeks, Towers said, gives away toys and clothing to needy families even if they can't afford the items.

“I think it’s great. This is the time for giving. It’s hard times for everybody, so a little free stuff for everybody is great,” shopper Joliene Riters said.

On Sunday, about a dozen families took advantage of free children’s clothing and toys.

“I don’t understand why she’s doing it, but she’s really nice to do it,” shopper Carol Cooper said.