Sparta The World Mission Gift Shop at the Sparta United Methodist Church will be hosting a benefit to help relieve hunger in Sussex County from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 3. The shop features gourmet coffees, teas, and chocolates, as well high quality handcrafts. Handcrafts include jewelry, purses and totes, holiday items, pottery, home furnishings, clothing accessories, and toys. The crafts are made by artisans from around the world. Nancy VanderVeen, coordinator of the shop, explains, “We try to touch the lives of people in all corners of the world, including those in our area. Every purchase helps. Currently, the local food pantries and certificate programs are struggling to keep up with demand, frequently running out of supplies before reaching all the families in need each month.” Last year, the shop raised $1,500 at the one-day benefit for hunger, and hopes to improve on that donation this year. Proceeds will go directly to aid Manna House, the Harvest House Luncheon Program, the SUMC Food Certificate program, and the Sparta Ecumenical Food Pantry. Through the church’s missions committee, the shop has previously donated money to Samaritan Inn, Interfaith Hospitality Network, Hurricane Katrina Relief, and Tsunami Relief. A Christmas Shoppe will also be open on Nov. 3. All merchandise is purchased through fair trade organizations such as Ten Thousand Villages and A Greater Gift, ensuring fair wages, and no child labor or worker exploitation. Regular store hours are Wednesdays and Saturdays, from 10 a.m. n 2 p.m., and Thursdays and Fridays from 1 n 4 p.m. The Shop is located at Route 517 and Sparta Avenue.