Free Store builds community connections

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The holiday season is upon us. It’s a time when many of us are caught up in shopping, giving gifts, decorating, and cooking and baking. Paying for holiday activities can add up. For many families, holiday spending can put financial pressure on their budget, especially with the high cost of living.  

The SWCC Free Store in Kalihi makes shopping accessible for those in need – from keiki to kupuna. They can shop for donated clothes, shoes, and household items that are new or gently used. All at no cost. 

“We want to give families the opportunities to fully enjoy the holiday season, not be left behind just because they lack financial resources,” says Joni Chun, executive director of the Susannah Wesley Community Center (SWCC), which operates the Free Store. “It helps families stretch their dollars a little bit more.”

More than a store
The Free Store opened in March. It’s modeled after a 25-year-old Free Store in Columbus, Ohio. More than a thrift shop, the Free Store has a warm gathering space where people can also come to socialize, have refreshments, and browse books. “It’s not just shopping. We’re building community. It’s a space for people to address their basic shopping needs and have the opportunity to talk story and build social bonds.”

Also unlike a usual thrift store, the Free Store pairs patrons with a personal shopper to help guide them with their selections. These personal shoppers are volunteers from schools, churches, business, and community organizations. Shoppers are given a 15-minute shopping window. Since opening in March, the store has served about 2,000 people and has received about 10,000 pounds of items to distribute.

Learn more here