Donations slow but need stays the same at local thrift stores
Thrift stores rely on the spirit of giving long after the holidays have passed.
During and immediately after the holiday season, donations to local thrift stores increase. People drop off things to clear out closets and make room for items they may have purchased or received as gifts. But the months following the holidays are often a time of decreased donations, making those times difficult for stores like St. Vincent de Paul and Goodwill.
“We are currently in our slowest donation period of the year, between now and the end of March,” said Andrew Marano, Goodwill chief retail operations and sustainability officer.
Donation have slowed for St. Vincent as well.
“We were really busy before. Obviously, it slows down a bit after the holidays,” said Watson.
Donations allow for more sales at the stores, and Goodwill and St. Vincent de Paul both use the profits from their thrift stores to help those in need in their communities.
“Through our office, the organization helps with things like utility and rental bills,” said Amy Watson, manager of the St. Vincent de Paul Society Thrift Store located in the Greater Butler Mart in Butler. “They help people get clothing and shoes.”
The types of donations the stores are looking for vary.
“Mostly right now it is more the knickknacks, small appliances and glassware. We take pretty much a little bit of everything, with the exception of couches and love seats. The cost of the spray for them has really gone up in price,” said Watson.
Clothing items are in demand year-round.
“Men’s clothing is always in high demand, and we need as much as we can get,” said Marano, adding that housewares, shoes and electronics are also very much needed.
Both organizations ask that you consider donating whenever you are able, knowing that the profits are going to a good cause.
“The money we generate through the sale of donated goods goes toward helping people with barriers — justice involved, youth looking for their first job, people with disabilities, people looking to improve their digital skills — improve their skills and get the support they need to find and keep meaningful employment,” said Marano.
More information on how and where to donate can be found on each organization’s website, www.svdppitt.org and www.goodwill.org.
