When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center
Why The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center offers a welcoming space where friends and community members can connect through the shared values of thrift shopping and charitable giving. Open Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm, the store features a wide assortment of gently used furniture, clothing, and household items at affordable prices, making it an ideal destination for budget-conscious shoppers. The store's drive-up donation center, available daily until 4:30 pm, makes it convenient to contribute gently used items without hassle. Beyond just a retail experience, The Salvation Army Family Store supports the local community by providing emergency vouchers for those in need, such as clothing for job interviews or household goods for families facing hardship. Every purchase and donation aids critical programs dedicated to rehabilitation, disaster relief, and family support. The Family Store therefore serves as more than just a place to shop or donate — it's a vibrant community resource that enriches lives in many dimensions. Visitors often find the store well-organized with daily sales that add extra value, creating a positive and productive environment to meet and support others in the community.
Here's what people think of The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center
As of recent, The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center holds a 3.6-star rating based on 226 reviews.
Customer reviews of The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center reflect a variety of experiences, with an overall rating of 3.6 out of 5 from 226 reviews. Many users appreciate the central role the store plays in providing affordable goods and supporting charitable causes. Positive comments often highlight the helpfulness of staff, the quality and diversity of merchandise, and the ease of donating items through the drive-up center. Reviewers also commend the store’s commitment to community assistance programs, such as issuing vouchers for those in urgent need, which demonstrates a genuine mission beyond commerce. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention inconsistent stock levels and occasional organizational challenges, with a few customers expressing dissatisfaction with the checkout process or customer service. Despite these critiques, the majority of feedback underscores that The Salvation Army Family Store is a worthwhile place for thrifty shoppers and donors alike. In conclusion, reviews portray the store as a valuable community resource that balances thrift shopping with meaningful social impact, albeit with room for operational improvements.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
radtech
Seriously??!! These are nothing special. They're not collector glassware by any means. I see these type of glasses in almost every thrift store for a couple of bucks at most. How does salvation army justify charging this more per glass? As others have stated, it's cheaper to go to TJ Maxx of other retailers and pay full price for something that's unused.
Krissi Faith
PLEASE END THE STAPLING OF TAGS. WOULD SPEND SO MUCH MORE MONEY HERE BUT YOU ARE KILLING THE QUALITY OF THESE NICE BRANDS... SEE PICS. L.L. Bean now with hole in the sleeve.. one wash and it'll spread. Revisited this store and reduced the ratings to 1 star. Someone is DOUBLE STAPLING THE TAGS TO THE CLOTHES. I spent $144 in one visit. Some of my items were $4.99 each. I get home and realize half of the items are ruined from staples. Not only that, but that kind of lazy, incompetence is gonna destroy someone's washing machine if they miss a few. I love this store but took me OVER AN HOUR AND A HALF TO UNDO THE STAPLES! 3 large bags of items... all stapled! 2 in each item. Some items were even zip tied. Please fix this immediately. If all sales are final, and this is how clothes are going to be tagged, I will donate and purchase elsewhere. Never seen something so ridiculous in my life. Loft, Ann Taylor, Coldwater Creek items destroyed... I am in such shock that someone would think to do this. Have a little more integrity. This thrift shop has the best deals but they aren't the best of they all have holes in them. They have limited space for a lot of furniture but the pieces they do have are pretty nice. The clothes are a little disorganized but we were there at the end of the day. *Note that they do close at 5pm.* Contacted the store about the staples. No apology or concern. Said they do this because the tags would come off or people would try to switch prices. Offered to find them some tag guns. There must be another solution. They won't be changing their ways anytime soon. Until then, we are gonna visit elsewhere. Sadly.
Miranda Liu
I do not recommend this store. Multiple items had unrepairable damage that was hidden by the tags. One had bleach spots that were behind the tag. They attach tags with STAPLES. So you have to dig out the staples with your fingers and everything you purchase now has holes from the staples. Way too overpriced also! Plenty of other thrift stores in the area that go to other good causes. I won't make the mistake of shopping here again.
Ellen Radford
I absolutely love this store! I have found so many items from famous brands and in such good condition! And surprise was the 50% off certain colored tags! That was so awesome! I will definitely be back again. Oh I love the way you hang the pants cause you can see the size without much effort!
Nichole Winkel
I’ve enjoyed shopping here for years, but lately the parking situation has become so frustrating. You can’t even pull into the lot to check for a spot without possible getting stuck bc of cars that park along the curb of the entrance. Half the spots have been made employee parking, which I fully understand, but most times I see that many of them are empty. It’s a pain to take the time to drive out here only to turn back around bc of parking. Also please stop stapling tags on the clothes. It ruins them and are a hassle to take off. A clothes tag gun and supplies would be worth the investment or just make a general pricing for items.
radtech
Seriously??!! These are nothing special. They're not collector glassware by any means. I see these type of glasses in almost every thrift store for a couple of bucks at most. How does salvation army justify charging this more per glass? As others have stated, it's cheaper to go to TJ Maxx of other retailers and pay full price for something that's unused.
Krissi Faith
PLEASE END THE STAPLING OF TAGS. WOULD SPEND SO MUCH MORE MONEY HERE BUT YOU ARE KILLING THE QUALITY OF THESE NICE BRANDS... SEE PICS. L.L. Bean now with hole in the sleeve.. one wash and it'll spread. Revisited this store and reduced the ratings to 1 star. Someone is DOUBLE STAPLING THE TAGS TO THE CLOTHES. I spent $144 in one visit. Some of my items were $4.99 each. I get home and realize half of the items are ruined from staples. Not only that, but that kind of lazy, incompetence is gonna destroy someone's washing machine if they miss a few. I love this store but took me OVER AN HOUR AND A HALF TO UNDO THE STAPLES! 3 large bags of items... all stapled! 2 in each item. Some items were even zip tied. Please fix this immediately. If all sales are final, and this is how clothes are going to be tagged, I will donate and purchase elsewhere. Never seen something so ridiculous in my life. Loft, Ann Taylor, Coldwater Creek items destroyed... I am in such shock that someone would think to do this. Have a little more integrity. This thrift shop has the best deals but they aren't the best of they all have holes in them. They have limited space for a lot of furniture but the pieces they do have are pretty nice. The clothes are a little disorganized but we were there at the end of the day. *Note that they do close at 5pm.* Contacted the store about the staples. No apology or concern. Said they do this because the tags would come off or people would try to switch prices. Offered to find them some tag guns. There must be another solution. They won't be changing their ways anytime soon. Until then, we are gonna visit elsewhere. Sadly.
Miranda Liu
I do not recommend this store. Multiple items had unrepairable damage that was hidden by the tags. One had bleach spots that were behind the tag. They attach tags with STAPLES. So you have to dig out the staples with your fingers and everything you purchase now has holes from the staples. Way too overpriced also! Plenty of other thrift stores in the area that go to other good causes. I won't make the mistake of shopping here again.
Ellen Radford
I absolutely love this store! I have found so many items from famous brands and in such good condition! And surprise was the 50% off certain colored tags! That was so awesome! I will definitely be back again. Oh I love the way you hang the pants cause you can see the size without much effort!
Nichole Winkel
I’ve enjoyed shopping here for years, but lately the parking situation has become so frustrating. You can’t even pull into the lot to check for a spot without possible getting stuck bc of cars that park along the curb of the entrance. Half the spots have been made employee parking, which I fully understand, but most times I see that many of them are empty. It’s a pain to take the time to drive out here only to turn back around bc of parking. Also please stop stapling tags on the clothes. It ruins them and are a hassle to take off. A clothes tag gun and supplies would be worth the investment or just make a general pricing for items.
radtech
Seriously??!! These are nothing special. They're not collector glassware by any means. I see these type of glasses in almost every thrift store for a couple of bucks at most. How does salvation army justify charging this more per glass? As others have stated, it's cheaper to go to TJ Maxx of other retailers and pay full price for something that's unused.
Krissi Faith
PLEASE END THE STAPLING OF TAGS. WOULD SPEND SO MUCH MORE MONEY HERE BUT YOU ARE KILLING THE QUALITY OF THESE NICE BRANDS... SEE PICS. L.L. Bean now with hole in the sleeve.. one wash and it'll spread. Revisited this store and reduced the ratings to 1 star. Someone is DOUBLE STAPLING THE TAGS TO THE CLOTHES. I spent $144 in one visit. Some of my items were $4.99 each. I get home and realize half of the items are ruined from staples. Not only that, but that kind of lazy, incompetence is gonna destroy someone's washing machine if they miss a few. I love this store but took me OVER AN HOUR AND A HALF TO UNDO THE STAPLES! 3 large bags of items... all stapled! 2 in each item. Some items were even zip tied. Please fix this immediately. If all sales are final, and this is how clothes are going to be tagged, I will donate and purchase elsewhere. Never seen something so ridiculous in my life. Loft, Ann Taylor, Coldwater Creek items destroyed... I am in such shock that someone would think to do this. Have a little more integrity. This thrift shop has the best deals but they aren't the best of they all have holes in them. They have limited space for a lot of furniture but the pieces they do have are pretty nice. The clothes are a little disorganized but we were there at the end of the day. *Note that they do close at 5pm.* Contacted the store about the staples. No apology or concern. Said they do this because the tags would come off or people would try to switch prices. Offered to find them some tag guns. There must be another solution. They won't be changing their ways anytime soon. Until then, we are gonna visit elsewhere. Sadly.
Miranda Liu
I do not recommend this store. Multiple items had unrepairable damage that was hidden by the tags. One had bleach spots that were behind the tag. They attach tags with STAPLES. So you have to dig out the staples with your fingers and everything you purchase now has holes from the staples. Way too overpriced also! Plenty of other thrift stores in the area that go to other good causes. I won't make the mistake of shopping here again.
Ellen Radford
I absolutely love this store! I have found so many items from famous brands and in such good condition! And surprise was the 50% off certain colored tags! That was so awesome! I will definitely be back again. Oh I love the way you hang the pants cause you can see the size without much effort!
Nichole Winkel
I’ve enjoyed shopping here for years, but lately the parking situation has become so frustrating. You can’t even pull into the lot to check for a spot without possible getting stuck bc of cars that park along the curb of the entrance. Half the spots have been made employee parking, which I fully understand, but most times I see that many of them are empty. It’s a pain to take the time to drive out here only to turn back around bc of parking. Also please stop stapling tags on the clothes. It ruins them and are a hassle to take off. A clothes tag gun and supplies would be worth the investment or just make a general pricing for items.
radtech
Seriously??!! These are nothing special. They're not collector glassware by any means. I see these type of glasses in almost every thrift store for a couple of bucks at most. How does salvation army justify charging this more per glass? As others have stated, it's cheaper to go to TJ Maxx of other retailers and pay full price for something that's unused.
Krissi Faith
PLEASE END THE STAPLING OF TAGS. WOULD SPEND SO MUCH MORE MONEY HERE BUT YOU ARE KILLING THE QUALITY OF THESE NICE BRANDS... SEE PICS. L.L. Bean now with hole in the sleeve.. one wash and it'll spread. Revisited this store and reduced the ratings to 1 star. Someone is DOUBLE STAPLING THE TAGS TO THE CLOTHES. I spent $144 in one visit. Some of my items were $4.99 each. I get home and realize half of the items are ruined from staples. Not only that, but that kind of lazy, incompetence is gonna destroy someone's washing machine if they miss a few. I love this store but took me OVER AN HOUR AND A HALF TO UNDO THE STAPLES! 3 large bags of items... all stapled! 2 in each item. Some items were even zip tied. Please fix this immediately. If all sales are final, and this is how clothes are going to be tagged, I will donate and purchase elsewhere. Never seen something so ridiculous in my life. Loft, Ann Taylor, Coldwater Creek items destroyed... I am in such shock that someone would think to do this. Have a little more integrity. This thrift shop has the best deals but they aren't the best of they all have holes in them. They have limited space for a lot of furniture but the pieces they do have are pretty nice. The clothes are a little disorganized but we were there at the end of the day. *Note that they do close at 5pm.* Contacted the store about the staples. No apology or concern. Said they do this because the tags would come off or people would try to switch prices. Offered to find them some tag guns. There must be another solution. They won't be changing their ways anytime soon. Until then, we are gonna visit elsewhere. Sadly.
Miranda Liu
I do not recommend this store. Multiple items had unrepairable damage that was hidden by the tags. One had bleach spots that were behind the tag. They attach tags with STAPLES. So you have to dig out the staples with your fingers and everything you purchase now has holes from the staples. Way too overpriced also! Plenty of other thrift stores in the area that go to other good causes. I won't make the mistake of shopping here again.
Ellen Radford
I absolutely love this store! I have found so many items from famous brands and in such good condition! And surprise was the 50% off certain colored tags! That was so awesome! I will definitely be back again. Oh I love the way you hang the pants cause you can see the size without much effort!
Nichole Winkel
I’ve enjoyed shopping here for years, but lately the parking situation has become so frustrating. You can’t even pull into the lot to check for a spot without possible getting stuck bc of cars that park along the curb of the entrance. Half the spots have been made employee parking, which I fully understand, but most times I see that many of them are empty. It’s a pain to take the time to drive out here only to turn back around bc of parking. Also please stop stapling tags on the clothes. It ruins them and are a hassle to take off. A clothes tag gun and supplies would be worth the investment or just make a general pricing for items.
How to reach The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center
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Why The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center with your friends?
Gathering your friends at The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center offers more than just a chance to shop or donate—it creates an opportunity for meaningful connection and community impact. Unlike many social meetups, this venue allows groups to engage in charitable giving together, transforming a casual hangout into a purposeful event. Friends can bond over the shared experience of browsing through an eclectic collection of secondhand items, from clothing and household goods to unique vintage finds, all while contributing to a cause that helps individuals overcoming addiction and hardship. The atmosphere at the store encourages conversation and teamwork, as you might coordinate donations or pick out items to support others. Beyond the act of giving, the store serves as a hub for social responsibility, making your meetup socially enriching and memorable. The moderate 3.6 rating with 226 reviews indicates a widely frequented spot with a community spirit, perfect for those looking to combine fun with philanthropy. This setting fosters a sense of accomplishment paired with camaraderie, ideal for friends or family groups aiming to make an impact together without sacrificing the joy of spending time in a shared, vibrant environment.
What activities can you do with a group at The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center?
When visiting The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center with a group, there are diverse activities that can make the gathering engaging and fulfilling. First and foremost, shopping at the thrift store together offers a treasure hunt experience where everyone can browse through a wide variety of clothes, accessories, shoes, housewares, and more. This shared exploration encourages lively discussion about style choices and the stories behind unique items. Secondly, groups can bring donations collectively, which creates a tangible way to contribute to the community’s wellbeing. Coordinating what items to recycle or donate as a team fosters a spirit of cooperation and social responsibility. Another key activity involves learning about the broader mission of The Salvation Army, such as its programs for addiction recovery, disaster relief, and family services, which often can be highlighted via informational material or staff interaction. Groups can also plan future volunteer engagements or fundraising activities, using the store as a meeting point to organize larger charitable endeavors. Finally, the store setting is conducive to snapping photos or sharing the experience on social media, spreading awareness and inspiring others to get involved, further enriching the group’s visit beyond simple retail interaction.
Why is The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center ideal for a group meetup?
The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center is ideal for group meetups because it uniquely blends social interaction with meaningful community engagement. Its spacious layout accommodates groups comfortably, allowing friends or family members to shop side by side without feeling cramped. The store’s inventory is varied and constantly refreshed, providing something for everyone’s taste and budget, which keeps the whole group interested. Importantly, the center is more than a retail space; it champions a strong philanthropic cause tied to funding Adult Rehabilitation Centers and supporting vulnerable populations, which adds depth and purpose to the group’s gathering. The process of donating and shopping secondhand also promotes sustainability, a value increasingly embraced by groups mindful of their environmental footprint. Additionally, the center’s location within a welcoming community framework means that meetups here contribute positively to local social programs, giving participants a sense of pride and connection to their neighborhood. The Salvation Army’s transparent mission and visible impact make meeting here a way to enjoy quality time while consciously supporting transformative initiatives, enhancing the overall meetup experience with meaning and shared values.
What kinds of items can groups expect to find or donate at The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center?
Groups visiting The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center can expect to find a broad assortment of gently used items that cater to a wide range of needs and styles. Popular categories include clothing pieces for all ages, from casual wear and formal attire to seasonal garments and accessories that can appeal to trend-conscious shoppers or those seeking bargains. The store also offers a variety of shoes and handbags, along with household items like kitchenware, décor, books, and small furniture pieces, making it a one-stop destination for both personal and home shopping. For donation purposes, groups can bring clean, gently used clothing, shoes, accessories, and household goods, which are then sold to fund rehabilitation programs and community services. This cycle of donation and resale enables helping those in need while offering affordable options to shoppers. To optimize the impact, groups can sort their items before arriving, selecting quality goods that reflect the store’s acceptance policies. Understanding the types of items accepted encourages efficient donations and avoids waste, ensuring that contributions are meaningful and beneficial to the store’s mission and clientele.
How does supporting The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center benefit the community?
Supporting The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center yields significant benefits for the community, making it an excellent venue for socially conscious gatherings. The proceeds from purchases and donations directly fund vital programs at Adult Rehabilitation Centers, where men and women receive critical support for overcoming substance abuse and rebuilding their lives. Beyond rehabilitation, these funds assist a variety of family services, including after-school programs and summer camps, that strengthen the community fabric by supporting at-risk individuals and fostering youth development. The center also plays a critical role in disaster relief efforts, homelessness services, hunger assistance, and poverty alleviation, with donations helping to provide meals, shelter, and recovery resources. By shopping or donating as a group, participants collectively contribute to a chain of charitable programs that impact countless lives, amplifying their positive effect. This community support not only transforms the lives of beneficiaries but also strengthens communal ties and fosters a culture of giving and empathy among local residents. Consequently, every visit and donation helps build a healthier, more resilient community.
How accessible and welcoming is The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center for diverse groups?
The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center is designed to be accessible and welcoming for a diverse range of groups, making it an inclusive destination for meetups. Most locations are situated conveniently with ample parking and footholds in community-centric neighborhoods, facilitating easy access by car or public transit. The store layout generally accommodates individuals with mobility concerns, providing clear aisles and customer service support to enhance the shopping experience. Staff members are typically knowledgeable and open, ready to assist visitors with donations or shopping inquiries, which helps create a friendly, inviting atmosphere. The store also draws a cross-section of the community, fostering interaction among people from varied backgrounds, age groups, and interests, ideal for groups seeking a socially rich environment. Moreover, the center’s mission promotes inclusivity by supporting a range of services addressing diverse populations, including seniors, families, and those in recovery. This ethos extends to the store environment, where guests often find a sense of shared purpose and community spirit, enhancing comfort and engagement for all visitors.
What makes hosting a meetup at The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center unique compared to other venues?
Hosting a meetup at The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center stands out compared to typical venues because it combines social interaction, thrifting, and philanthropy in one setting—offering a layered experience that few other places provide. Unlike restaurants or recreational spots focused solely on entertainment, this store offers a blend of fun bargain hunting and the satisfaction of social good. The appeal goes beyond immediate enjoyment to a longer-lasting impact, as each donation and purchase supports rehabilitation and social programs, turning a casual meetup into a collective act of kindness. This shared experience can strengthen friendships or family bonds through collaborative effort and mutual values of helping others. Furthermore, the thrift store environment is informal and relaxed, fostering easy conversation and exploration, contrasted with the formality or noise of some other social venues. By choosing this location, groups reclaim a purpose-driven meet-and-greet space that promotes sustainability, generosity, and community support, making the gathering memorable and meaningful in a way that few other venues can match.