#2HoursinSLU - Shine, a department of the SCCA

Carrie Jacobsen and Eileen Hood are the managers of Shine, a retail department of the SCCA.

The name “Shine” is so appropriate for this wonderful SLU mercantile. Managers Eileen and Carrie are beaming as they talk about this gem that they created, where customers can get more than just gifts and retail therapy.  Eileen and Carrie “live, eat and breathe Shine,” with complete devotion to the store and the way it supports the SCCA and SLU communities.

Shine is not your typical general store. Shop proceeds support patient and family programs at the SCCA, and much of their inventory and services cater to the special needs of cancer patients and survivors. They carry a wide variety of inventory, from oncology products to apparel and gifts. The store also offers special services to help their customers beat cancer and take their life back. They offer mastectomy and compression fittings, complimentary head shaves and wig trims by high-end, licensed cosmetologists and a surprising, discrete section focused on sexual intimacy. Customers walk in overwhelmed and exhausted by their battle with cancer, and leave feeling self-confident and empowered.

Carrie and Eileen are self-proclaimed “Seattle girls” and love being part of the SLU community. The store is located at the corner of Pontius Ave. N. and John St., sitting at the very edge of the neighborhood, but right in the middle of where prosperous new developments meet vulnerable, underserved communities in need. Carrie and Eileen’s favorite spots in SLU highlight places near the store that contribute something special to the neighborhood.

Favorite Spots

For a “mean cup of coffee,” along with wonderful tea and pastries, the duo enjoys a quick trip to the nearby Carabiner Coffee Company food truck. Mary’s Kitchen at El Corazon is a fantastic spot to grab some lunch to-go – the fried chicken is to die for.

For serious dog- and people-watching they head to Cascade Playground, which offers many activities for all kinds of humans and canines. Immanuel Community Services at Immanuel Lutheran Church provides a food bank and community-based social services for those in need, bringing to light the disparity in the neighborhood in what Eileen and Carrie feel is a healthy way.

There is a special place in Carrie and Eileen’s hearts for Nollie’s Café, who takes amazing care of their customers, providing special attention to the SCCA patients from the SCCA House and the Pete Gross House. These are people in cancer treatment, often far from home and in an intimidating and unfamiliar place. Nollie’s gets to know them, serves them delicious food, and even offers blankets in their seating area for patients who might get chilled.

Make a Visit to Shine!

Eileen and Carrie are excited to spread the word about their store, and their favorite places. Visit Shine every Friday in December for Fa La La La Fridays, with 20% off for neighbors who come to shop. Please join us as well at the SLU Chamber Holiday Celebration & Shopathon @ Shine on 12/4 from 5-7 p.m. Guests can celebrate the season and shop with a 25% off discount.