The total came from the sales coordinated and hosted by the church but supported by numerous other churches, businesses, organizations and individuals.

Every dollar raised will go to the Needline and Food Pantry that provide emergency utility assistance and food for local needy residents. The faith-based non-profit organization assists about 350 local families per month, according to Director Jackie Herndon. In addition to the donated food, the Food Pantry spends about $3,000 per month purchasing food to help families, Herndon said.

Herndon and Event Chairman Dr. Randle Gibson expressed thanks to all those who donated goods and cash, helped with the sales and all the shoppers who came out to buy the merchandise. Leftovers from the sale went to the JU Kevil Center and other local charities.

Michael McAllister, a sophomore at Graves County High School, turned in the winning design for the colorful yellow t-shirts worn by volunteer workers.

Many of the volunteers started work before 3 am. Goods, crammed into a large four-bay garage and four large trailers were moved to the Broadway parking lot and set up for the sale, which began at 7 am.

Shoppers arrived before daybreak, some with flashlights, looking for bargains.