Let’s Chat: Is one person’s junk, another person’s treasure?

By Linda Tooth on October 30, 2024.

If you believe thrifting is the gift that keeps on giving, those words are gospel.

Through my twenties, thirties and even my forties, I spent ridiculous amounts of money on brand names and full-price products. Purses, clothing, makeup – you name it, I was buying it.

Now well into my fifties, I have taken a turn, Thrifting is my new thing, and I am loving it!

Cambridge Dictionary defines thrifting as “the activity of looking for or buying goods from thrift stores or other places that sell used things such as clothes, books, or furniture.”

I know some people view used goods as ‘yucky,’ but let’s be honest, with the price of clothing these days I can take home what someone has worn once or never at all and give it a wash and it looks amazing for a fraction of the full price. I am no mathematician, but even I know that is a wonderful way to save money.

What about the price of a new book? So what if someone has read it, buy used.

I have thrifted not only locally for clothing, furniture and books but also in larger centres where the selection is that much more. Many of these thrift stores are associated with a charity that gives back to communities in need.

One store that got me excited to visit is the Women in Need Society (WINS) in Calgary. This “homegrown charity social enterprise” has a dream of helping women and their families thrive.

What an amazing concept.

It offers employment services through Retail & Warehouse Ready programs. According to WINS’ 2023 Impact Report, 92 per cent of those who access its services are women.

Helping people in need makes my heart happy. I realize not everyone is blessed to have a fridge full of food, a roof over their head, or a job to go to. Thankfully places like the Women in Need Society are doing their best to help those in need.

If you cannot get to Calgary let us not forget that thrifting and helping those in need can be done right here in Medicine Hat. A new store I have not had the chance to explore is the YMCA downtown Y Treasure Thrift Store.

This social enterprise is supporting YMCA youth and employment programs. Sharon Hayward, CEO of the local YMCA is quoted as saying ,”We believe charitable thrift stores play a vital role in our community by providing options for low-cost merchandise, employment and volunteer opportunities.”

Online reviews recommend we check this place out. I promise within the next few weeks I will get there and report back with my thoughts.

Until next time, Happy thrifting, and have a Meowtastic Day!

Linda Tooth is the positive culture co-ordinator at Sanare Centre

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