Watching Your Wallet: Thrift stores seeing surge in customers

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- From saving money to sidehustles, thrift stores are seeing a surge of customers.

"I think the younger generation is more thrifty now than they were before," says Mission Thrift General Manager Debbie Powell. "Before, people were embarrassed to go to the thrift store and shop. Now, it's like a thing -- they even have thrift clubs in high schools."

Powell has been doing this for 14 years and says what started as a way to save has become a source of income for customers.

"They come in to get something cheap so they can up-sell it," Powell said.

Experts say when up-selling, go in with a game plan or target demo you want to shop for.

Don't be afraid to image search the items. You may be surprised to find designer clothing for a fraction of the price.

This is one of two Mission thrift stores that benefit Fresno's Rescue Mission.

After donations are processed and priced, proceeds benefit the mission's recovery programs and shelter.

"Items can be refurbished just like people, and some things that someone is going to throw away, we can turn and make money with that," Powell said. "It goes into the mission and helps change lives."

In addition to the silent auction section, you can find cute kids' costumes, get a head start on the holidays and save on select color tags and various deals by the day.

Mission Thrift accepts donations Monday through Saturday.

Those donations are considered charitable contribution deductions on your taxes.

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