Supporting local charities through thrifting is a win-win situation. Not only do you get to enjoy the thrill of finding hidden treasures and scoring great deals, but you also have the satisfaction of knowing that your purchases, donations, or volunteer efforts are making a real difference in our community. Donating items to thrift stores is another impactful way to support local charities. By decluttering your home and giving away gently used clothing, household items, or furniture, you’re providing valuable resources that can be sold to raise funds. We are fortunate to have thrift shops at ARF, LVIS, and The Retreat in the area, which each support different causes.
ARF THRIFT AND TREASURE SHOP
ARF Mission: The Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons actively rescues cats and dogs, provides quality care, and offers sanctuary until loving homes can be found. ARF’s work with animals, within our community, and throughout the organization is guided by three core values: compassion, integrity, and dedication.
Shop for a Cause: All proceeds from sales of donated items benefit the cats and dogs awaiting adoption at the Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons.
Get involved: Anyone interested in volunteering can sign up on the ARF website. Before starting a volunteer journey at ARF, every volunteer is required to attend a brief orientation at the ARF Adoption Center, during which they will be introduced to ARF animals and staff members and given a brief training session on ARF rules and protocol. Orientations are currently available on Wednesdays at 3:30 PM and Fridays at 10:30 AM. Volunteers must be 16 years old or older. Volunteer opportunities include walking dogs, socializing shy cats and dogs, assisting at events, working at the front desk of the adoption center, working at the thrift shop, and more.
Donate: The ARF Thrift and Treasure Shop accepts donations of new and used clothing, furniture, and home decor in good condition. Pick-up and delivery are available in the Hamptons for large items.
ARF Thrift and Treasure Shop Address: 17 Poxabogue Lane, Sagaponack
Hours: Open 7 days a week. Monday to Saturday, 10 AM to 4 PM. Sunday, 12 PM to 4 PM.
Instagram: @arfhamptons
Website: arfhamptons.org
THE SHOPS AT LVIS
LVIS Mission: “The purposes for which the Society is formed are for the maintenance and preservation of historical landmarks and for the maintenance of ponds, parks, greens, and trees in the Village of East Hampton and vicinity, as well as for charitable and educational improvement and the advancement of the general welfare of the said Village of East Hampton and vicinity.” — LVIS Constitution, Article II
Shop for a Cause: The bright and cheerful shops offer a selection of gently used men’s and women’s clothing, second-hand books, housewares, jewelry, and furniture on the East End. Constant donations provide a steady influx of merchandise, so it is worthwhile to check their racks and shelves often. Revenue from the shops provides major funding for the many LVIS projects.
Get involved: With over 30 working committees, LVIS matches each volunteer’s skills and interests to a variety of roles. To become a volunteer, visit lvis.org/volunteer-form.
Donate: There are several ways to donate to LVIS, including monetary donations, memorial plaques, planned giving, and donations of gently used merchandise. Visit lvis.org/donate to learn more.
Address: 95 Main Street, East Hampton
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, from 10 AM to 5 PM
Instagram: @lviseasthampton, @lvisthriftshops
THE RETREAT BOUTIQUE
Mission: The Retreat’s mission is to provide safety, shelter, and support for victims of domestic abuse and to break the cycle of family violence. In pursuit of that mission, The Retreat provides direct services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, their families, and the Eastern Long Island community through a 24-hour bilingual hotline, counseling, legal advocacy, prevention education, and emergency shelter. Violence prevention education and other supporting programs are available throughout Suffolk County.
Shop for a Cause: The boutique benefits the organization in that 100 percent of its proceeds go to The Retreat to support its free services for clients. It also serves as a communication center for The Retreat, educating customers about our work, and letting people know where they can get help for gender-based violence and abuse.
Upcoming Event: The Retreat will kick off the summer season with its annual All Against Abuse Benefit on Saturday, June 8, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM at The Southampton Arts Center. According to Loretta Davis, Executive Director of The Retreat, “Guests will be directly supporting our services and resources for individuals, parents, and children affected by violence and abuse, all of which we offer at no cost.” For tickets, visit allagainstabuse.givesmart.com.
Get involved: You can become a volunteer, donate clothes to the thrift store, purchase items from our Wish List, or make a monetary donation.
Donate: The store accepts donations of lightly worn women’s or men’s clothing, shoes, accessories, and jewelry during the operational hours.
Bestsellers: The best-selling items at the store are dresses and cashmere sweaters.
The Retreat Boutique Address: 2102 Montauk Highway, Suite #110, Bridgehampton
Summer hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday, from 10:30 AM to 6 PM. Sundays from 11 AM to 4 PM. Closed on Tuesdays.
Instagram: @theretreatboutique
Website: allagainstabuse.org
