"So often you see people selling things, but we just want to give them away," Scates said. "We've been blessed, and we want others to be blessed." The Free Market will give away electronics such as televisions and stereos, household items including furniture and kitchen appliances and both men's and women's clothing.
The "Free Market" has been advertised through social service agencies and on fliers that have been posted at businesses around Boonton, Morristown and Dover. The event has been in the works for months, and volunteers have been separating items in preparation for Sunday. "The entire downstairs is full of clothing and all kinds of things.
" There will be about 20 adult volunteers and five children assisting throughout the day. "Our young people are so valuable to this entire community," said Miller, who emphasized the importance of building a community and understanding neighbors' needs. "This isn't about giving things away," he said.
The Free Market expects about 100 to 200 people throughout the day. Each person will receive about 100 tickets, which they will trade in as they take items. The public is welcome to take whatever it is that they may need.
"We want to let our community know that our church is there if they need our help," Missionary Society President Janice Anthony said. "I think if everyone would do something like this, we wouldn't have homelessness." The Elizabeth Lewis Women's Missionary Society is one of the longest-standing ministries at Bethel.
It provides scholarship support to college students, purchases book bags and supplies for young people in Boonton and abroad, and responds to people in crisis, such as victims of Hurricane Katrina. Miller hopes to expand the Free Market and continue it in the fall, too. "Over time we hope to involve more store holders and businesses," he said.
"Everyone used to know each other in their neighborhoods, and this is the first step to get back." Church has other activities planned throughout the year to unite the church community.
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