BELLINGHAM - Thrift store Wise Buys will reopen Wednesday, Jan. 23, after being closed more than a month because of water damage.

The damage happened Dec. 15 when a fire began in an apartment above the business at 1224 N. State St.

"Much of our merchandise was either damaged or related to the holidays, so we could use donations of gently used clothing and household items to re-stock the shop," said Emily O'Connor, executive director of Lydia Place, which receives the proceeds from the thrift store.

People are welcome to drop off items starting Wednesday as well.

Lydia Place operates a six-month residential program that helps homeless women and children transition, as well as assists local people already in subsidized housing.