A Store with Heart: Prairie City’s Reaching Hearts on Main Celebrates One Year

By: Forgottonia Times™ Report

David and Shelly Roberts, of Prairie City, Illinois.

In the heart of Prairie City stands Reaching Hearts on Main, a store housing far more than home décor and gifts. Opened on February 1st, 2024, this unique store is the culmination of Shelly and David Roberts' vision to transform a long-vacant building into a warm, welcoming space. Located in what was once a Casey's gas station, the shop now overflows with carefully curated gifts and handmade goods designed to uplift and inspire.

David & Shelly's shared passion for hospitality stems from their experiences caring for children with many medical issues, showing them great joy in the midst of challenges. "This life can be hard," Shelly confesses, "It's our desire that people who walk into the doors of our little space in Prairie City know they don't have to walk alone." That ethos is reflected in every corner of the shop, from handmade textiles and wooden treasures to books, journals, and budget-friendly inspirational gifts. Many of these creations were lovingly crafted during long hospital stays with their children, adding an even deeper meaning to each item.

Community response has been overwhelming, with both locals and visitors embracing the store's mission. "One of the biggest questions we hear is, 'WHAT is that place?'" Shelly shares with a laugh. "The best answer is to just stop by and see for yourself!" Customers are often touched by the shop's heartfelt offerings, whether it's a thoughtful gift for a friend facing a challenge or a keepsake to celebrate life's milestones.

As their first anniversary approaches, Reaching Hearts is gearing up for a special celebration from February 6th to 8th. The event heralds door prizes, customer gifts, and other delightful surprises—a fitting tribute to a year of hard work, resilience, and community building.

Open Thursday and Friday (10am-6pm) through Saturday (10am-4pm), Reaching Hearts on Main (445 E. Main St.) invites everyone to explore its lovingly crafted inventory. "We've spent a lot of our lives offering hospitality to others, and Reaching Hearts has become an extension of that passion." - Shelly Roberts