After reading about a brazen theft at the Center Moriches United Methodist Church thrift store in the South Shore Press, Dr. Harvey Manes didn’t just shake his head in disbelief. He opened his heart and made a $5,000 donation to help the ministry recover and continue serving the community.
Thieves forced their way into the volunteer-run store, pried open a safe, and stole more than $2,300 in proceeds and donations. The funds help support church operations and community outreach programs relied on by local families.
“It is with great pleasure and honor that I write this sincere note of thanks for your generous gift,” wrote Thomas R. Muller, president of the church’s board of trustees, in a letter to Dr. Manes, a retired South Shore orthopedic surgeon. “Your thoughtful, caring, and supportive donation will greatly aid our recovery and means a great deal to the entire congregation.”
The article struck a nerve with the philanthropist. “When I read about what happened, I felt compelled to help,” he said. “This is a church and thrift store that have served the community for decades. I was glad to do something meaningful after learning how important the store is to so many people.”
The donation was made through the Manes Peace Prize Foundation, an organization founded by Dr. Manes that has supported charitable causes around the world.
The thrift store has operated for about 40 years and is staffed entirely by volunteers. Proceeds help offset rising fuel and utility costs while supporting ministry work tied to the historic Main Street church, founded in 1839.
Muller said the donation was especially uplifting after a difficult moment. “This church has served literally thousands of people over the years,” he wrote. “Support like this reminds us how strong and caring our community truly is.”
Manes said he hopes his contribution encourages others to stand behind local institutions. “Good things happen when neighbors look out for one another,” he said.