When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
The Sharing Place Thrift Store
Why The Sharing Place Thrift Store is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Sharing Place Thrift Store, located in East Harlem, NYC, stands out as a welcoming destination for those looking to shop high-quality, gently used clothing, shoes, and housewares at remarkably low prices. Established in 1997 and operated by the nonprofit LSA Family Health Service, this store is more than just a retail spot—it's a hub of community support and social connection. Shoppers can find a unique blend of items ranging from high-end designer brands like Salvatore Ferragamo and Kate Spade to affordable mainstream labels such as H&M and Ann Taylor. Its compact, treasure-filled space creates the thrill of a true thrifting adventure for dedicated shoppers who enjoy the hunt for hidden gems. The Sharing Place is also well known for its role in supporting local families in crisis by providing free emergency goods for East Harlem residents through referrals. Beyond its excellent selection, the store serves as a social venue where neighbors meet, shop, and engage, contributing to a sense of community spirit and dignity. This combination of affordable quality goods, community service, and cultural richness makes The Sharing Place a special spot for meeting friends and discovering unexpected treasures in New York City.
Here's what people think of The Sharing Place Thrift Store
As of recent, The Sharing Place Thrift Store holds a 4.4-star rating based on 28 reviews.
Customer reviews of The Sharing Place Thrift Store reflect a generally positive experience, boasting an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 from 28 reviews. Shoppers appreciate the availability of high-quality and designer merchandise at bargain prices, highlighting the store as a popular choice for unique thrift finds in East Harlem. Positive feedback often mentions the variety and quality of items as well as the store's role in supporting worthy family programs through its sales. However, some critics point out certain drawbacks tied to the store's layout and customer service. The shop’s small, densely packed space with narrow aisles can be challenging to navigate, making the shopping experience somewhat physically taxing and occasionally overwhelming. Additionally, some customers felt the staff interaction was indifferent and less welcoming, noting a lack of assistance or greetings, which could detract from the overall atmosphere. Despite these concerns, the store's mission and value proposition resonate strongly with many customers, emphasizing a supportive local community environment. While newcomers might find the store cramped and a bit daunting, seasoned thrifters treasure The Sharing Place for its unique finds and commitment to helping families in need. In conclusion, The Sharing Place is valued not only as a thrift store but also as a community anchor, with customer experiences broadly reflecting its dual role as a retailer and nonprofit supporter.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Victoria X
I normally donate tons of expensive stuff here and the ladies working there are super nice. Today though (12/26/2023), there was a white older woman who was a witch! Mean and rude! I have never seen her there before but I hope to never see her again. If she is volunteering, she should just stay home and avoid working with people since she doesn't seem to know what customer friendly means. Super cranky and horrible attitude!
Jennifer Miller
We had a wonderful experience here today! Our first time, and it won’t be the last. Great selection, lots of brand new clothing, and very reasonable prices. And Danny went out of his way to help us! A highlight of our trip to NYC. And now we have fabulous new clothes to wear. Thank you!
Cece Des
It’s a hit or miss sometimes you can find some good stuff for good price, but as someone who works in community work, some of the prices sometimes shows that they’re just trying to make a profit more than help community, I don’t know if they just wing it with their pricing, but sometimes it’s a little off
Claudia R
Super kind and thoughtful workers who will make your shopping experience that much better! Incredible finds (not a huge selection but I found what I was looking for!) Great deals a neighborhood gem. Gracias!!
Kelly Russo
I’ve found beautiful timeless dresses here. The sharing place is truly a hidden gem in East Harlem. If you’re in the area I’d check this place out.
How to reach The Sharing Place Thrift Store
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Why The Sharing Place Thrift Store may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Sharing Place Thrift Store with your friends? Because it offers more than just a shopping destination—it provides a shared experience rooted in community, sustainability, and meaningful impact. Gathering your friends here means connecting over the thrill of finding unique, high-quality, gently used clothing, shoes, and housewares—all at amazing prices. Unlike typical retail venues, The Sharing Place is not just about purchasing items; it is a hub for giving back. Every sale supports family programs run by LSA Family Health Service, a nonprofit dedicated to aiding East Harlem families in crisis. Whether you are treasure hunting for designer brands or seeking everyday essentials, you and your friends will enjoy the communal spirit of sustainable shopping in an environment that fosters empathy and social responsibility. It’s a place where your meetup turns into an opportunity to support those in need and engage in a conscious lifestyle. Being voted the "Best Thrift Store in NYC" speaks volumes about the welcoming atmosphere and quality offerings you experience here, making it a standout spot for group outings filled with fun, discovery, and compassion.
What activities can you enjoy at The Sharing Place Thrift Store that make it perfect for group meetups? Shopping for one is exciting, but pairing up with friends transforms the activity into an adventure. The store is spacious and thoughtfully organized, offering a variety of sections specializing in clothing, shoes, and unique housewares. Your group can split up to cover more ground and compare finds or stick together to explore each aisle and debate the best deals. Beyond shopping, The Sharing Place offers you the chance to learn about and contribute to community-based social programs, turning your meetup into a meaningful experience. The store’s staff are friendly and knowledgeable, often ready to share stories about the local impact of your purchases. You can also plan your visit around the store hours, which run Monday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., providing plenty of flexibility for group plans. After shopping, you can extend your day by exploring East Harlem's vibrant eateries nearby, deepening the social experience with good food and local culture.
Why is The Sharing Place Thrift Store considered an ideal location for a group seeking a mix of shopping and social impact? Because it intertwines retail therapy with community empowerment. Each item you purchase funds essential family support programs through LSA Family Health Service, amplifying your group’s contribution to tackling local challenges such as hunger and homelessness. Shopping here isn’t just buying goods—it’s a form of participation in a greater cause. The store’s reputation as an anchor institution in East Harlem since its founding by the Little Sisters of the Assumption highlights its deep roots and trust in the community. For groups, this creates a shared sense of purpose and pride, making the outing much more than entertainment. This unique blend of commerce and charity attracts socially conscious shoppers who want their leisure time to have a positive ripple effect. Also, with a strong rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 28 reviews, visitors consistently appreciate the quality of items and positive atmosphere, validating it as a reliable and rewarding destination.
How does The Sharing Place Thrift Store support a sustainable and affordable shopping experience ideal for families and friends? This thrift store is a treasure trove of affordable fashion and household items, all carefully curated for quality to ensure customers don’t sacrifice condition for price. This focus on high-quality, gently used merchandise means each find feels special, and your group can enjoy the excitement of discovering hidden gems like designer brands or unique home decor. Shopping secondhand here promotes sustainability by extending the lifecycle of goods, reducing waste and environmental impact—a great way for socially aware groups to bond over eco-friendly choices. Since the store sources donations primarily from the community, your visit supports a circular economy within East Harlem, reinforcing local resilience. This affordability means your group can have a memorable shopping excursion without stretching budgets, making it accessible for friends or families looking for value combined with meaning.
What makes The Sharing Place Thrift Store uniquely connected to the East Harlem community and perfect for a local meetup spot? Its strong ties to East Harlem, reflected in its mission and services, set it apart from generic thrift shops. The store is an extension of LSA Family Health Service, which provides emergency goods and comprehensive support programs to families in crisis living in the area codes 10029 and 10035. By shopping or donating here, your group directly contributes to helping neighbors in urgent need, fostering a true community spirit during your visit. The store’s location in East Harlem also offers an opportunity to engage with the culture and vibrancy of this neighborhood. After your visit, your group can explore local landmarks or sample the diverse food scene, such as Evelyn's Kitchen or Patsy's Pizzeria, enriching your meetup with local flavor. This grounding in local service and culture makes The Sharing Place an authentic venue where groups can connect both socially and socially responsibly.
How can groups participate in giving back through The Sharing Place Thrift Store beyond shopping? The store actively encourages and facilitates donations, welcoming contributions from individuals, families, churches, or businesses. When you visit as a group, you can coordinate a donation drive to bring in gently used items, amplifying your positive impact beyond just purchasing goods. Every donation is carefully processed, with items either sold to generate revenue for community services or distributed directly to families in need. Participating in this cycle of giving is a fulfilling activity for friends and family looking to make their meetup truly meaningful. Additionally, volunteers can support the store’s operations, making volunteering a group endeavor that deepens your connection to the community. This multifaceted approach to engagement means your meetup can encompass shopping, donating, and volunteering, creating diverse opportunities to grow closer while supporting a critical social mission.
What sort of atmosphere and customer experience should groups expect at The Sharing Place Thrift Store? Visitors consistently highlight the welcoming and positive environment at The Sharing Place. The staff are known for being approachable and helpful, enhancing the experience for newcomers and seasoned thrift shoppers alike. The store layout is designed for easy browsing with designated sections that allow for efficient group scouting and collective discovery. The attention to cleanliness and order keeps the atmosphere inviting and comfortable, encouraging longer visits and leisurely exploration. Customers appreciate the thrill of uncovering “amazing steals” and one-of-a-kind items, making the shopping trip exciting and rewarding. Groups can expect a relaxed pace where they can chat, share opinions, and enjoy the hunt together. This welcoming vibe combined with the good cause behind the store contributes to a feel-good shopping experience that converts into a fulfilling social outing.
What practical tips should groups know when planning a meetup at The Sharing Place Thrift Store? Planning a visit with friends or family is straightforward thanks to the store’s clear schedule, open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Arriving during weekday hours might offer a quieter experience, while weekend visits can feel livelier and more social. Since the store is located in East Harlem, groups may want to arrange transportation ahead of time, considering public transit options or nearby parking if driving. It can be helpful to establish a meeting spot within the store to regroup after browsing or to plan out which sections each person or pair wants to focus on. Because proceeds support community programs, bringing cash or card for purchases means every dollar helps. Afterwards, plan to extend your outing to nearby local eateries to round out your day with a communal meal. These pointers ensure your group enjoys a smooth, enjoyable, and impactful experience at The Sharing Place.
How does shopping at The Sharing Place Thrift Store help raise awareness about social issues and support local families? This store serves as both a retail space and a powerful platform for education and community engagement. By coming together as a group to shop here, you open dialogue about issues like poverty, food insecurity, and housing instability that affect East Harlem families. The direct connection between your purchases and LSA Family Health Service’s programs makes these social challenges tangible and immediate. Participating in this ecosystem promotes empathy and understanding among your friends or family. It’s an opportunity to turn what might otherwise be a casual shopping trip into an eye-opening moment that deepens social consciousness. Moreover, the visibility of the store as an integral neighborhood institution highlights the power of collective action and nonprofit partnerships in addressing local needs.
What special features or unique items might groups look for when visiting The Sharing Place Thrift Store? One of the store’s draws is its curated selection of unique items rarely found together in one place. From quality shoes and clothing in various styles and sizes to housewares that can refresh your home, the variety invites group members to search for both everyday essentials and extraordinary finds. Because the store receives donations regularly, inventory is always evolving, guaranteeing new surprises with each visit. Designer and brand-name items occasionally appear, adding excitement to the treasure hunt experience. Picking out gifts for friends or personal treats takes on a new dimension here, as each purchase also supports a social cause. The thrill of discovery combined with the generosity of donation makes The Sharing Place a dynamic and engaging destination for any group.
Why do repeated shoppers and community members keep returning to The Sharing Place Thrift Store? Return visitors are loyal because the store consistently delivers high-quality merchandise at affordable prices while maintaining its community-driven mission. The atmosphere of goodwill and purpose creates an emotional connection beyond retail transactions. Customers appreciate knowing that every purchase supports tangible family programs, creating a virtuous cycle where shopping supports hope and assistance. The volunteer and donation opportunities also help people stay involved beyond shopping. This repeated engagement cultivates a community of shoppers who feel they are part of a supportive network rather than just consumers. For groups, this means your gatherings at The Sharing Place can evolve into regular rituals marked by smiles, shared stories, and a sense of true contribution to the East Harlem community.