Winona Volunteer Services reopened the clothes shop this past July after celebrating 50 years of being open. Winona Volunteer Services is a non-profit that offers support to the community in a variety of ways. Their food services included groceries on the go, the food shelf, and home-delivered meals. They also have the Catholic Charities’ Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), coordinated assistance and educational programs.
Over the last couple years, a new building was built specifically designed with the communities needs in mind. The final move happened April 2nd, 2024. However, the clothes shop remained closed until the parking lot was finished in July. Bev Speltz, the volunteer coordinator, is excited about the new opportunities the clothes shop is going to bring.
“The clothes shop is our daily fundraiser. All of the money that we make in the clothes shop goes back to supporting the programs that we offer here.” Bev said. “Our volunteers are very particular, so they are choosing the best of the best to go into the clothes shop.”
For every dollar spent at the clothes shop, 93 cents is put directly back into supporting the other services. The food shelf is open 5 days a week to eligible families to get food during times of need. Their coordinated assistance program provides help to those who have had an unexpected situation come up. All these services are supported every time an item is sold at the clothes shop.
Gracy Butcher, a third-year sociology major, likes the sustainability aspect of thrifting.
“It’s so much better for the environment,” Butcher said. “There are thousands of pounds of clothing that get wasted a year from fast fashion, and secondhand clothes are more affordable, accessible and recyclable.”
Winona Volunteer Services take great pride in helping keep clothing out of the land fill. They recognize how big an issue that is for current and future generations. Items are picked out based on the condition they’re in, the current needs of the community and their appeal.
“I also love funky clothes and experimenting with different looks and the thrift store has lots of options.” Butcher said.
During her visit, Butcher appreciated the affordability, the size variety and the care the workers took when helping her find a specific item. The workers take time and put great care into creating a store that has pieces anyone could walk home with. Winona Volunteer Services is located on 402 E 2nd St. and is open Monday through Friday at 11am- 4:30pm and Saturday from 10am-12pm.
“The bottom line is that by shopping here, you are not only helping support us, but you’re also supporting your friends, your neighbors and the entire community.” Bev said.
