There’s no need to spend a fortune on new clothes and furniture when you can find most of what you need at your local store. So on National Thrift Store Day, which takes place on August 17th, 2022, take the time to explore your nearest donation-based shop and see what treasures you can find.
Not only will you be able to find quality clothes at a fraction of the cost and support environmentally friendly initiatives, but you’ll also be able to help support the programs typically associated with these stores.
Local thrift stores are typically run by charities or non-profit organizations, meaning your purchase will go towards a good cause. While most people think of “big brand” thrift stores like the Salvation Army Thrift Stores, which helps to fund adult rehabilitation programs, or Goodwill stores where they provide job training and other services to those in need, there are tons of different thrift stores that support a wide variety of issues. This article will cover some of the most popular national thrift store chains, where your money goes, and tips on getting the most out of your thrifting experience.
Habitat For Humanity Restores
Habitat for Humanity is a worldwide NGO (nongovernmental organization) that helps build homes for needy people. In the United States, they have “Restores,” home improvement stores selling donated materials, with all proceeds going towards Habitat for Humanity’s housing initiatives. You can find everything from appliances to building materials to furniture at Habitat Restore, and because they rely on donations, prices are always low.
Better World Books
Better World Books is a for-profit social enterprise that collects and sells used books to raise money for literacy initiatives worldwide. They have an online store and physical locations and partner with libraries and universities to help them sell their unwanted books. In addition to selling used books, Better World Books also donates books to schools and libraries in need. So, if you’re looking for a specific book, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to find it here, and you’ll be supporting a great cause at the same time.
National Coalition Against Domestic Violence
The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence is a US-based organization that works to end violence in relationships. They have several programs, including a national 24-hour hotline, and they also operate a thrift store where they sell refurbished electronics to help fund their initiatives. So if you’re looking for a new computer, tv, or other electronics, check out the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence Thrift Store.
Deseret Industries Thrift Store
Deseret Industries is a non-profit retail store associated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that has been around for more than 80 years. A portion of the proceeds from sales at Deseret Industries goes towards programs that help those with disabilities, provide job training, and support other community initiatives. You can find various items here, from clothes to furniture to home goods.
America’s Thrift Store
America’s Thrift Store is a chain of for-profit thrift stores across the southeastern United States. A portion of the proceeds from America’s Thrift Store goes towards Make-A-Wish Foundation, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Home Of Grace, Adult & Teen Challenge Mid-South, And the Louisiana Adult & Teen Challenge. You can find almost anything at America’s Thrift Store, which has a wide variety of locations.
Local Churches
In addition to the stores mentioned above, it is always wise to check with your local church to see if they donate to any charities. Neighborhood churches are very connected to their communities and often know of smaller thrift shops or organizations needing help. In addition, some smaller non-profits may have small closets or shops with items for sale.
When it comes to National Thrift Store Day, remember that your purchase supports a good cause while helping to save the environment by reusing and recycling instead of buying new. So, whether you’re looking for a new shirt or furniture for your home, visit your local thrift store and see what they offer. You might be surprised at the quality of items you can find and the difference you can make by shopping second-hand.
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