HOUGHTON -- Many of the gifts under the Christmas tree are items that have never been opened, but during these tough economic times, a great alternative could be shopping for a more discounted price.
The Salvation Army has been helping people for over 100 years, and the Salvation Army Thrift store is a way to find better prices while helping people in the community.
"This store, I think, is an aid to the community because you can shop here for a cheaper price than just about anywhere else. With the economy today, I think watching our budget is a good thing to do," said store manager Craig Brewer.
For some people, shopping at the Salvation Army may not be the first thing that comes to mind, especially for the holidays, but Craig says it is important for people to know that 90 percent of the money spent at the store stays within the area.
"It helps us with the programs, whether it be Vacation Bible School or food pantry or power cut-offs, and like my sign says up here, 'Where you can shop for a cause.' It's a cause for helping our community," Brewer said.
Not just during the holiday season, but all year-round, the Salvation Army Thrift store says they will gift a person, and by not having them pay for their purchase, they say this is a way to keep the giving spirit alive. Helping the community is a top priority for this store, and they say donations are always accepted.
Clothing donations are a constant, but many items, like pots, pans, and furniture, are some of the items they are in need of as well.
Some shoppers say when they come into the store, it is like a treasure hunt; they never know what kind of fun items and great deals may be lying around just waiting to be discovered.
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