For 35 years, the La Plata County Humane Society Thrift Store has done more than sell gently used treasures – it has funded a mission that has rehomed thousands of shelter pets. As we celebrate this milestone, LPCHS is calling on the community to rediscover the joy of thrifting for a purpose.
Located just north of Walmart, the LPCHS Thrift Store has long been a beloved local gem, known for its unbeatable prices, ever-changing inventory and strong ties to animal welfare. But the retail world has shifted. Since a peak of $450,000 in profits over a decade ago, the store has weathered competition from national chains like Goodwill, economic changes and a post-pandemic slowdown. In 2024, profits dropped to around $200,000.
We lost a lot after Goodwill and the pandemic came to town, but we’re committed to putting the thrill back into thrifting because every dollar we raise helps us care for the pets in our shelter.
Shoppers will notice a revamped layout designed for easier browsing and better access to the store’s famously eclectic inventory. Thanks to a new point-of-sale system, staff members can now track trends and stock more of what customers love – whether it’s quirky décor, quality furniture or a $1 hidden treasure.
Prices have been lowered based on customer feedback: Everything in the store costs just $1, $3, $5, $8, $12 or $16, or one third the online price. You can get a whole outfit for just $9! The store no longer marks prices with permanent markers, the dressing rooms are back open, the furniture section is expanded and there are over 400 newly stocked items every day.
The strategy for LPCHS is to create a thrift store that sells a lot of cool stuff at low prices so shoppers can come back more often and bring their friends. The more people who shop, the more money we can raise for the shelter pets next door.
The warehouse is closed to donations on Tuesdays and Sundays so we can pick up and deliver furniture. Sometimes, the community is so generous that we have to stop taking certain items until we can make space in the warehouse. Otherwise, the donation dock is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday and Monday. So please, shop when you drop off your donations.
Proceeds from every purchase at the LPCHS Thrift Store directly support the Humane Society’s shelter services. That means that your purchase buys food, medicine and shelter for adorable cats and dogs waiting for forever homes.
Whether you’re a treasure hunter, a local donor or someone who loves animals, we want to see you at the LPCHS Thrift Store any day of the week from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (Sundays 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.). We are at 1111 South Camino del Rio next to the LPCHS Shelter. Dogs (and cats) are welcome to shop, too!
Julie Dreyfuss is executive director of La Plata County Humane Society.