Salvation Army Thrift Stores

When you're on a tight budget, Salvation Army thrift stores can be a wonderful resource for making the most of your money. Although shopping at a thrift store does require more patience than picking up items at your local mall, it's a great way to build a new wardrobe, redecorate your home, or simply pick up a few toys for your children.

The Salvation Army is a Christian charity founded by William and Catherine Booth in 1865. The name of the organization comes from the fact that they aspire to bring Christian salvation to those in need. Additionally, the internal structure of the group is much like a military service.

The Salvation Army began in London, but today there are branches around the world. In the communities it serves, the Salvation Army helps to assist victims of natural disasters, provide support services for the elderly, honor veterans for their service, offer low-income children educational summer camp opportunities, and rehabilitate recently paroled prisoners. Christmas charity collections, typically done through volunteer "bell ringers" at local malls in November and December, are also part of the Salvation Army's mission.

One of the ways the Salvation Army helps to raise money for its programs is to sell donated clothing, furniture, and household items at its thrift stores. The stores are open to anyone who is interested in obtaining a great bargain; you do not have to be a Christian or meet any income requirements to shop at a Salvation Army thrift store.

Like most retail establishments, Salvation Army thrift stores are listed in your local phone book. However, the Salvation Army Web site also has a store locator that you can use if needed.

Once you've located the Salvation Army thrift stores in your area, remember the following tips for successful thrift store shopping:

• Go often. At a thrift store, the merchandise changes regularly. If you only visit once a month, you'll never find the best deals! Avid thrift store shoppers hit their favorite stores at least once per week.
• Shop alone. Finding the best deals at a thrift store requires patience and persistence. It's best not to be distracted by children or friends who are eager to get to another destination.
• Ask for help. If you're looking for something specific, ask a clerk if he or she can help you find the right item. Even if the item isn't there, you may be able to leave your phone number in case something like it arrives.
• Inspect your purchases carefully. Shopping at thrift stores requires careful attention to detail. When buying clothing, check to make sure the item doesn't have stains or ripped seams. When buying toys, make sure there are no missing or broken parts.
• Don't overlook an item's hidden potential. Part of the fun of thrift store shopping is seeing how unwanted items can be given a second life. Remember that a dresser can be repainted, a chair can be reupholstered, and an old painting can be reframed.

While shopping at Salvation Army thrift stores can certainly be a rewarding pastime, don't forget that these stores require plenty of donations in order to stay in business. Contributing gently-used items to your local thrift store is a simple way to help support a very worthwhile cause. The Salvation Army Web site provides detailed information regarding the procedure for donating clothing, furniture, and other household items. You can also contact your local Salvation Army thrift store directly if you have questions about how to make a donation.

In addition to the satisfaction that comes with performing a good deed, donating to the Salvation Army can earn you a tax deduction based on the value of your items. The Internal Revenue Service recognizes the Salvation Army as tax-exempt organization under section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code. However, you will want to consult a qualified accountant for specifics on how to prepare your return with this deduction.

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