For me in 2020 I have been thinking a lot about where I want to spend my money. This holiday season and throughout the year I am choosing to shop local and second hand. I feel by making this choice my dollar stays in my community to support those living and working here. You may think how can shopping second hand or donating items to my local Salvation Army thrift store support your community? You may be surprised.   

Let’s look at all the positive ways your donations or purchases can help support your community:

• Diverting items from landfills. Although you may not have a use for a particular piece anymore it might be valuable to someone else. Last year the Salvation Army thrift store diverted 86 billion pounds from landfills.
• The funds raised give back. The money made from donations goes to support Salvation Army programs and services in your community. The Salvation Army thrift store gave over $6.2 million of items free-of-cost. Also raised almost $816,733 through GoodWorks last year alone.
• Saving money. If you bring items to a Salvation Army thrift store that you no longer need, you will receive a coupon for 10% off a purchase of $25 or more when you donate in store.
• The Salvation Army enables individuals and families living in poverty to shop in our stores free of charge through vouchers given by The Salvation Army’s social services program.

The end of the year is a perfect time to refresh your space. Get rid of the items you no longer need. Cleaning out cluttered closets, overstuffed bookshelves or kitchen cupboards can feel so good. Instead of simply throwing out items you no longer need consider donating them to a Salvation Army thrift store near you.

Right now a lot of people are thinking about holiday shopping. Consider looking for good quality second hand items at your local Salvation Army thrift store. I have already found a few children’s books, small toys and clothing. Our girls will enjoy these and the money spent is going to support those in need. If you are not sure where to start when it comes to shopping at the thrift store, check out my tips.

By making the choice to donate or shop second hand you are giving back to your community in a small way.

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