Stories of Kindness from Around the World

Using My Hobby To Help The Homeless


--by whitby98, posted Mar 22, 2012

I am a huge fan of thrift shops and I have several that I check out every weekend. It's how I unwind and have some time to myself. I actually look forward to it every week.

 
One of my favorite shops had started discounting certain clothing by 90%. Every week they had an entire wall filled with all kinds of items, most of which were in great condition. I was disappointed at first that I couldn't personally benefit because nothing was in mine or my husband's size.
 
Then it dawned on me. I could stock up on sweaters and jackets for the impending cold weather and donate them to the homeless shelter! In the last couple of weeks I've gotten six huge bags of sweaters, jackets, sweatpants, and long-sleeved shirts for under $20! I also got a small bag of soap, toothbrushes and shampoo for $1.
 
One of the jackets I got today was brand new and still had the tag on it. Most of the other items are brand-name and in really nice shape. I try to get unisex colors and styles in case there are some women who need clothing too.
 
I went to the shelter today to drop off my haul. It was pouring rain and there were several people huddled inside waiting for lunch. One poor man was lying on the wet floor. I asked him if he wanted something dry to lie on and gave him a sleeping bag. He was thrilled and said he really needed one.
 
Before dropping off the clothing I tucked a smile card into one of the jacket pockets!

 

18.5K Reads

Readers Comments

NoOnesNME wrote: Yup! Definitely an awesome way to ensure everyone wins!
bookworm58 wrote: You are a inspiration to do something to help others. I will do what i can in our community also. Thanks for sharing a wonderful story
Kathleen wrote: I love your story. This is something i can and will do. Thank you for reminding me it is the simple everyday things that make such a difference.
Froon wrote: This was a great thing to do. I love thrift stores too!
Sherry wrote: Wonderful! Our church runs a food bank along with giving donated clothing out (nothing is bought by the clients. Just a great idea.
Namaste wrote: Awesome idea! Kudos to you!
Sarah wrote: You're an inspiration!
Snickers' Mom wrote: What a great example of thinking outside the box! Terrific idea ~ let's start a wave of thrift shop giving!
SmileSharer wrote: That is a great idea. And it didn't sound to bad price wise or anything like that. It just takes a person with a caring heart like you. Smiles forever, smilesharer
Synergy wrote: This is such a great action to take. I send my admiration and appreciation for doing what you did. I do volunteer in a second-hand shop myself and thank you for sending out this idea to me. I will keep that in mind as a wonderful means for paying a favor forward. Thank you again and have an awesome weekend.

Add A Comment