Thrift stores have become essential in reducing environmental waste, offering a sustainable alternative to the disposable culture fostered by fast fashion. This movement includes Mission Thrift in Oshawa, which is managed by manager Cindy Brown and assistant manager Dan Wilson.
The business plays an essential part in environmental preservation and support for the community. The store’s goal is to provide the community with reasonably priced options while helping to reduce waste.
“We’ve seen a dramatic rise in donations of nearly new clothes and other items,” Brown said. “It’s concerning how quickly people are buying and discarding things.”
This cycle is supported by fast fashion, which produces and discards items quickly. But according to Brown, second-hand shops provide a solution. Thrift stores offer high-quality items at less than half of the original cost while reducing the amount of goods that end up in landfills by giving used goods a new lease on life.
“People bring in items they would have otherwise thrown out, and we recycle what we can’t sell. It’s a win-win for the environment and the community,” Brown said.
Mission Thrift also works with “recycling partners for items like textiles, electronics and scrap metal,” Wilson adds. “This year alone, our location has kept over 150,000 pounds of material out of landfills, and that number is still growing.”
These efforts have a major positive influence on the environment by lowering waste and conserving resources.
Once looked down upon, thrift shopping has become more and more popular, especially with younger people. Brown and Wilson have seen this shift firsthand.
“Younger people are more concerned about sustainability,” Wilson said. “We conducted a survey of 1,200 customers and found a notable increase in younger shoppers, particularly those aged 20 to 25. Even high school students are making thrifting part of their routine.”
Brown highlights the value of taking your time to investigate, urging shoppers to browse through the entire store. “You never know what hidden gems you might find, but it takes effort,” she said. The Mission Thrift team also places a strong emphasis on maintaining high standards for the items they sell.
“We have an orientation and training program for all new staff and volunteers,” Wilson explains. “This ensures that every item is thoroughly checked and cleaned before it hits the floor.”
Mission Thrift is dedicated to giving back to the community, in addition to its environmental efforts. The Christian Union of Canada, which helps disadvantaged local and international communities, receives all retail profits.
“Sustainability isn’t just about reducing waste; it’s about making a meaningful impact,” Brown said.