Thrifty Shopper Rises to the Challenge Despite Two Donation Centers Being Removed

SYRACUSE, N.Y.(NCC News) — Wegmans shoppers in East Syracuse and Liverpool can no longer drop off clothes at donation centers, as two centers have been removed.

Thrifty Shopper remains committed to operating the remaining centers. Currently, there are three donation centers at Wegmans locations in Dewitt, Cicero and North Syracuse, along with two at Walmart locations in Camillus and Auburn.

With the removal of the two donation centers, there has been a surge in donations at Thrifty Shopper stores.

The Thrifty Shopper stores extended store hours and increased staffing to work with the increased amount of donations.

Rescue Mission Chief Social Enterprise Officer, Luana Lovenguth, notes that although two centers were removed, they were conveniently located within a one-mile radius of its existing stores.

"On a positive note, we retained all of our employees that were formerly working at the attending donation centers, so we also didn’t lose any employees because of the move,” she said.

For nearly 15 years, Thrifty Shopper has maintained donation centers at various Wegmans locations, proving convenient for donors like Brian Chanatry.

“We’ve got grown adult children that are now out of the house and sometimes they’ve left things behind that are good and usable so it’s a good way to clean out the house,” said Chanatry.

Beyond the convenience of dropping off clothes or usable items, every donation made to Thrifty Shopper has a direct impact on the community.

The Rescue Mission recycles approximately 14 million pounds of items annually, including 150,000 pounds of textiles per month. Even ripped, stained or torn items can be recycled and contribute to funding the Rescue Mission's programs.

“All of the money that we get goes right back to funding our programs. We have almost 365 beds for those experiencing homelessness. We offer three meals a day, 365 days a year,” said Lovenguth.

As the holiday season approaches, the Rescue Mission gears up to fulfill their important duties.

They will be delivering and serving approximately 1800 meals to the community on Thanksgiving Day, ensuring that those in need receive support and care.

Anyone in Onondaga County requiring a meal can contact the Rescue Mission holiday hotline for home delivery, while others can join for a Thanksgiving meal served at the food services building.

By donating to Thrifty Shopper, individuals are not only decluttering their homes but also making a meaningful impact on the lives of thousands in the community who rely on the Rescue Mission's support.