Today we’d like to introduce you to Karen Lincoln.
Hi Karen, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
It all started when my daughter was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her oncologist referred her to a local organization that provided free wigs, head coverings, and other supportive services for individuals undergoing treatment.
When we visited, I noticed that the front of the building was a thrift store. Every purchase made there helped fund the services they provided for breast cancer patients. I was immediately inspired. While this resource was available to my daughter, I realized there was nothing like it in the county where I live. For many people in our area, accessing similar services would require driving an hour or more—something that can be incredibly difficult for someone going through cancer treatment.
That experience planted a seed. I reached out to a few of my friends who had gone through cancer of some type and asked if they would like to start on this journey with me. We spent nearly a year searching for the right commercial property while developing a plan to bring a similar mission to our community. Eventually, we found the perfect location in the heart of Jonestown, Pennsylvania, and in January 2026, Heart to Heart Thrift opened its doors.
The response has been overwhelming. Since opening, we’ve been blessed to help numerous individuals affected by breast cancer by providing wigs and head coverings through our wig room, clothing for those experiencing weight changes during treatment, and many other forms of support.
Our services are tailored to each person’s unique needs. Depending on the situation, we may provide financial assistance for medical bills or prescriptions, coordinate home cleaning services, offer counseling through licensed therapists, connect patients with professional hairstylists, and supply wigs, head coverings, and other essentials that bring comfort during treatment.
The support from our community has been incredible. The generosity of our donors has exceeded our expectations, and we’ve received so many donations that we’ve even had to rent a storage unit to accommodate them all. Every donation, every volunteer, and every purchase made in our thrift store allows us to continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of local families facing breast cancer.
As we continue to grow, we’re excited to participate in community events throughout the coming months to raise awareness about our mission, connect with those who may need our services, and show others how they can get involved. What began as one family’s difficult journey has grown into a community effort built on compassion, hope, and the belief that no one should face breast cancer alone.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The hardest part of it was finding the right the location! We needed to ensure that we look for several things such as handicap accessibility, parking, is it in an area that will also have foot traffic and is noticeable etc.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Most of the volunteers are all retired from all different careers, but have been affected by cancer in some sort of way whether th directly or family.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Compassion! Those who are asking for help as going through such a difficult time and asking for help is such a hard thing to do for some! You need to have kindness and understanding and be supportive and sympathetic!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hearttoheartthrift.com
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/Hearttoheartthrift
