Goodwill is a local thrift store that is quite the place to shop. With very low prices on expensive name brands, there is a wide range of items that can be found. It is a great place to stop by if you’re looking to save some money, or be a good samaritan and save the environment while you’re at it.
Thrifting has been rising in popularity as of recently, emerging as a sustainable way of living and a money saver. Shopping at stores such as Goodwill offers many benefits that stretch beyond just finding unique items at affordable prices.
The Triton High School community has hopped on the trends and indulged in this lifestyle.
“I really enjoy thrifting, one of the locations I go to is Billie’s Thrift Shop in Amesbury,” science teacher Mr. Horsley said. “My favorite jacket in the universe came from that store, and I wear it all the time.”
Mr. Horsley is known for his sustainable lifestyle, as he also ran a clothing drive called “Swap, Don’t Shop,” which was very successful, and helped Triton to recognize the importance of recycling clothes and items. The event was a hit, and many students realized that they don’t need to spend loads of money, or support high amounts of production, to find something they can wear every day.
Shopping locally and thrifting provide many benefits such as it’s impact on the environment as a whole, while staying stylish. Purchasing second-hand products helps to reduce the need for new production. Goodwill industries are international nonprofit organizations that use their donations to help fund job training, employment placement services, as well as other community programs. This benefits not only the buyer of the product but individuals with disabilities, veterans, and those who are facing economic troubles. Making the choice to thrift, and shop at stores like Goodwill, shows that you’re willing to make a change and help to benefit the community around you.
Some might think Goodwill is just an upcycled clothing store, but this business also offers a variety of things ranging from clothing, to furniture, electronics, and more. To our surprise, while shopping around we spotted a TV, for an insanely low price of only $15. Obviously it wasn’t in pristine shape, but after examining the product, (seemed too good to be true) we noticed there were barely any scuffs or scratches! Unless you’re a movie fanatic, why buy a $900+ television, that might rarely get used, when you can save money, as well as the environment, and spend as little as $15 at Goodwill for one.
“I go with my girlfriend and I’ve found a few good t-shirts at Goodwill.” Substitute teacher Brandon Baletsa said.
First-time thrifters might not realize the amount of name brands that usually fill the aisles in thrift stores, offering style, while not breaking the bank at the same time.
Walking into the store, all you could see were racks and racks of clothes for days. To our surprise, name brands such as Kate Spade, Vineyard Vines, Hollister and Pacsun, American Eagle, Michael Kors, and more filled the hangers.
Even students have chosen to thrift, whether it was for fun, a new experience to try, or simply because everything’s cheaper.
“Sometimes I go with my mom just for something to do. We went to Plato’s closet once and it was really cool because I found some Lululemon for like $20, which is a good deal for that brand.” Sophomore Maggie Rennick said.
It’s clear that thrifting offers a multitude of benefits in which extend beyond just finding stylish items at affordable prices. By making the switch to thrifting, students and teachers at Triton have helped to contribute to environmental sustainability, by both reducing waste and lowering the demands for production of brand new products. One of a kind and unique pieces can be found while also making economic conscious choices, making thrifting an enjoyable as well as impactful experience. Choosing the thrifting lifestyle not only enhances one’s style but also creates a responsible way of living, which is slowly helping to improve our community, and the economy as a whole.
