OPINION: Stepping into the wonderful world of charity shops

With so much ‘sameness’ in high streets and shopping centres, there is something really refreshing about independent shops.

And when it comes to creating a completely unique shopping experience, charity shops are most certainly to the fore.

From staples such as local school uniforms and an ever changing selection of books to quirky finds and unique wardrobe gems, charity shops offer a fantastic service. 

There is no shortage of them in Donegal, with beneficiaries ranging from people supported by the Saint Vincent de Paul to animal charities, organisations that help people with disabilities, to numerous local and national charities that support people. 

Of course, the main function of charity shops is to raise funds for their organisations. Money raised helps cancer patients, those who are struggling financially, people living with disabilities or debilitating illnesses. They support research, help those in war or disaster zones abroad, help lift people out of dire poverty and simply keep them alive by helping to provide their next meal. 

Charity shops also  support people who are struggling with mental health, addiction, trauma and more. And for those who are suffering in this way, walking into a charity shop may be a less daunting first step towards getting help.

Indeed, awareness is another important function of charity shops. They literally put the cause they are supporting on a street front and therefore make people aware of the organisation and of the fact that support is available for those who need it. 

I know people who have gained work experience in charity shops that helped them find work in retail and go on to make a career in the field. 

For others, volunteering in a charity shop is a way to give something back, or to keep themselves occupied in a meaningful way during periods of unemployment. 

It is also a great way for people who are new to an area to get off to a really positive start in their community, and to get to know people, be in fellow volunteers or customers. 

Lower cost shopping is a majorly significant feature of charity shops. As the cost of living crisis continues, charity shops are a lifeline for many people. School uniforms, First Communion dresses and suits, children’s shoes and other essential items of clothing can be found in great condition and for very good value. 

For those who love to read, there are any number of books, often being bought, read and re-donated by returning customers. 

Items of furniture, delph and other homeware are great for people starting out in a new home or renting a property. 

There have even been a number of stunning wedding dresses coming up for sale in Donegal charity shops in recent years. 

One of my favourite things about charity shops is their uniqueness. Charity shop chic bucks fashion trends and allows for a big degree of personality and creativity. We have seen in recent times a Best Dressed Lady prize at Glencolmcille Show last year go to a lady who bought her dress in the St Vincent de Paul charity shop in Donegal Town. 

A Donegal woman won Best Dressed Lady at the Sligo Races last week, having bought a hat in a local charity shop and personalised it with wild heather to make an absolutely stunning headpiece.

I’ve had some fantastic charity shop finds myself over the years, from a black blazer that I practically lived in during my late teens to numerous scarves, tops, coats and more, and even a few nice bits and pieces of glassware, pictures and other household items that are no longer available in regular shops. 

I have bought a flute and clarinet in excellent condition when my children were learning music. And I couldn’t even start to count the number of books, records, DVDs etc that I have picked up over the years. 

Charity shops are so much more than fundraising mechanisms. Run by dedicated volunteers, they brighten up our towns and offer so much to our communities and to those they support. 

So the next time you pass a charity shop, take a look inside. You never know what hidden treasures you might find.