Just Between Friends consignment sale supports foster families

EAST RIDGE, Tenn. (WDEF) – From Shoes to Strollers: Just Between Friends consignment sale gives back to families in the local area.

Camp Jordan Arena had it all—from shoes to strollers—offering parents discounted prices on gently used children’s items.

For many shoppers, events like this provide an opportunity to save big on essential items for their kids.

Single mother of four, Kiera Payne, explained how much events like this mean to her.

“I am a single mother, so it’s just great that I got the opportunity to be out doing something like this,” Payne shared.

But after the shopping wrapped up, the giving began.

Any items left behind that sellers didn’t reclaim were made available completely free to those in need.

Heather Nelson, co-owner of Just Between Friends, celebrated this unique part of the event.

“I think it’s my favorite part of the sale for sure. I wasn’t really part of this part until last year, and once I saw it, it’s like I wanted everyone to donate everything because I really love, you know, giving back to people,” Nelson said.

From 3 to 4 PM, the focus shifted to ensuring foster families had the chance to gather essentials for children who often arrive in their care with little to nothing.

Michelle Armstrong, a foster parent, described how valuable this opportunity is for those caring for children in the foster system.

“This is designed specifically for foster families, so you’re really surrounded by people who are going through a lot of the same experiences as you. They’re here, and we’re all just here to help the kids,” Armstrong stated.

For mothers wondering if they should attend in the future, Payne encouraged them to show up. “Don’t ever be afraid to go the extra mile for your kids or if you are taking care of anybody else’s kids because free help is the best. It’s just good to have this,” she said.

Armstrong shared advice for those considering foster care, explaining that there are many resources available for those who feel called to help.

“Yeah, absolutely. We’ve actually fostered—oh, probably around seven kids now—just for various lengths of time and for various reasons. If you feel called to do so, absolutely, you can reach out. We have lots of agencies in the area, as well as just going straight through DCS. You can learn a lot more, have your questions answered, and you do go through a ton of classes first. They really do try hard to prepare you for what you are getting into and what that commitment looks like.”

Looking Ahead Nelson shared that the next Just Between Friends sale is set for September 14-20, 2025 with the same donation opportunity available at the end.

“If you have things that you would like to donate—children’s clothes, toys, things like that—you are more than welcome to bring those here,” Nelson added.

Click here to find more free shopping opportunities.