Video from the Grand Rapids Salvation Army fashion show.

Let’s face it, times are tough. Families and individuals are looking for ways to save money and spend more responsibly in the midst of a lagging economy.

Penny pinching can be a difficult discipline, but some creative folks out there are making the most out of their dollars and cents, and they’re having fun doing it! Personal stories of victory and enthusiastic tips for others have been popping up on blogs of frugal fashionistas and do-it-yourself gurus who know how to find bargains without sacrificing style and personality.

And where do many of their coveted treasures come from? The Salvation Army Family Thrift Stores. It’s truly inspiring to see how a little creativity – and your money – can go a long way. And not only do purchases from our stores help your wallet, they also enable The Salvation Army to serve those in need.
Many bloggers have been sharing their trendsetting Salvation Army creations online, such as Amanda’s “Thrifted Remix” style, and retro, eclectic outfits by Ancho P. There’s also Elise, an Interior Architecture student whose talented and selective eye dressed mannequins and designed displays to transform a Salvation Army store into an upscale boutique.

Amanda's "Thrift Remix" Style is based on clothes from second hand stores including The Salvation Army. Photo from her blog http://isanotherstreasure.blogspot.com.

A group of students from Grand Rapids Community College even hosted a fashion show at a Grand Rapids, Michigan Salvation Army Family Store. They were rocking the runway with outfits they compiled themselves from the store’s racks, boasting styles from polished to funky.

‘Nikki’ raved on her blog about a beautiful antique bench with “great bones and beautiful scroll work,” that she found at The Salvation Army for $13. She transformed it with some fun fabric and pink paint to fit in with her contemporary living room.

Now, back up – we can share in the excitement of others who have found great deals, but, as mentioned earlier, how do purchases (and donations) to Salvation Army Family Thrift Stores help those in need? Funds from the store directly finance Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Centers (ARCs), which is a rehabilitative ministry that provides spiritual, social and emotional assistance for men and women who have lost the ability to cope with their problems and provide for themselves. Each center offers residential housing, work, and group and individual therapy, all in a clean, wholesome environment. The physical and spiritual care that program participants receive prepares them to re-enter society and return to gainful employment.

For more information about Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Centers, visit our website at www.satruck.org. In the meantime, we hope you continue to stretch your dollars and express your creative side with pieces from Salvation Army Family Thrift Stores!