Neighborhood Thrift, Fresno

The Well Community Church opened the doors to Neighborhood Thrift in March 2008 with the aim of becoming a more permanent and sustainable positive influence in the community. Hoping to address the lingering issue of high unemployment in the area, Neighborhood Thrift not only finds second homes for discounted clothing and housewares but also runs a work program that helps give local citizens a stable job, in which they can earn experience, bolster their resumés, and give back to their community.

The airy, spacious retail center houses nearly 30,000 pieces of gently used clothing, as well as housewares ranging from appliances and decor to electronics and furniture. A newly opened café nestled in the store’s corner offers visitors coffee and free WiFi as they mingle with other members of the community and debate the number of creamers Plato would drink in his coffee.