Celebrate without the consumerism

Trying not to get sucked into the usual orgy of consumerism this time of year? One common suggestion is to make contributions to charity in lieu of gifts that oftentimes just end up being returned or regifted, but it can feel unsatisfying to just hand around cards announcing that a donation has been made to The Human Fund, like George did in that episode of Seinfeld.

But there is a way to do both, have tangible gifts that you can wrap and give to those who are dear to you, and donate to charity at the same time: Do your holiday shopping at nonprofit thrift stores. We have several in the area that raise needed funds for various worthy causes. And they’re even closer to home than the big box stores. Purchasing secondhand items has the added benefit of diverting waste from of the rapidly filling Johnston landfill.

The Restore on the corner of South County Trail and Shannock Road sells household item to benefit Habitat for Humanity. Items for sale run the gamut from appliances and furniture to wall hangings, kitchenware, and tchotchkes of all kinds. While you’re there, you can also drop off used CFL bulbs for recycling.

They’re open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Check their Facebook page for current events.

The Rhode Island Center Assisting those in Need (RICAN) recently opened a Community Shoppe in the same building as the food bank on the corner of Routes 112 and 91 (across from K&S Pizza). Proceeds benefit the food bank. The store is attractively laid out and sells household and decorative items as well as new and vintage clothing and accessories. Now that the Westerly Sun has written about it, the merchandise turns over quickly, so if you see something, grab it, because it might not be there when you go back.

They’re open Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Check their Facebook page for current events.

The Jonnycake Center of Peacedale operates a store called Furniture That Feeds at 1207 Kingstown Rd. to benefit its food bank and other programs assisting those in need. In addition to furniture, the store sells high-end clothing, jewelry, artwork, and home décor.

They’re open Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (Closed Sunday through Tuesday). Check their Facebook page for current events.

While you’re in the neighborhood, make sure to stop by Thrifty Sister at 1183 Kingstown Rd. Originally located here in Charlestown, they were driven out of town by our draconian ordinances regarding signage. They sell vintage clothing, gifts, and antiques. They’re open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Check their Facebook page for current events.

The Jonnycake Center of Westerly has a thrift store at 23 Industrial Dr. In addition to clothing, shoes, jewelry, furniture, and household items, the store also sells craft supplies, books and other media, and toys.

They’re open Monday to Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Check their Facebook page for current events.
 
Happy shopping!