The VGH Thrift Store began at Vancouver General Hospital, when staff realized that some patients had a need for clothing. What began as an emergency clothing fund for patients has grown into a thriving thrift store that provides quality clothing, housewares and more at reasonable prices to its community. Sale profits are used to purchase equipment and fund services to benefit patients and residential care centre residents at VGH, UBC Hospital and related Vancouver Coastal Health facilities in Vancouver. The VGH Thrift Store relies on donations and the generosity of its volunteers, ranging in age from 15 to 75 years old. 100 percent of net profits go to Vancouver Coastal Health-Vancouver. The not-for-profit organization has collected more than $125,000 in donations since 2010, benefiting both VGH and UBC Hospital. 
Recently opening shop at 2535 East Hastings Street in August, the staff and board members gathered this past weekend to celebrate the store’s grand opening. “Since our initial opening in early August this summer, we’ve had nothing but positive vibes from the local community and we couldn’t be happier,” says the team at VGH Thrift Store. 
The party had a great community turn out, with refreshments, sales, gift certificate prizes, and even cake! Check out the VGH Thrift Store’s website for more information about what they do, and don’t forget to stay social on Twitter and Facebook!