NEW FAIRFIELD – The New Fairfield Community Thrift Shop is packed with seasonal goods and ready to welcome visitors for safe, socially-distanced shopping. There are loads of decorati
ons available and tons of items that would provide entertainment to homebound residents.

If you are in need of Christmas lights, ornaments, o
r wreaths that fit your budget, look no further than the Thrift Shop. Decorations, Christmas sweaters, seasonal dishware? They’ve got them all. To help make the season brighter they are also pulling out all the stops with a massive 50% off sale on a wide range of items, from footwear, linens, and luggage to furniture, lamps, and framed art.

In addition to clothing that’s available for all ages, there’s a multitude of leisure activities to be had. Bread makers and small appliances are available for cooks. And pass winter hibernation pleasantly with books, board games, movies, and videos games. There are even items for sale to please the pets in our lives.

A volunteer-run establishment, the shop donates all of the money that is left after expenses including mortgage, maintenance, and utilities back into the community to support numerous endeavors in town. After being closed initially from March to September, the Thrift Shop has been steadily open on a reduced schedule with strict Covid procedures in
place.

Volunteer Ms. Claudia Henry explained that “We watched very closely how the governor’s directives for opening evolved. The local thrift and second hand shops communicated with each other during the shut-down to share procedures in their shops.”  In addition to keeping the doors open when the weather permits, face c
overings are mandatory, hand sanitizer is provided at the door, and arrows have been placed on aisle floors to direct foot traffic. “So many customers have expressed their gratitude that we’re open,” Henry said.

Though they normally accept donations during hours of operation, volunteers have asked for a cease in
donations until the new year due to the large amount of goods on hand. Typically open twice per week, the New Fairfield Co
mmunity Thrift Shop will be open a third day per week in the lead up to Christmas; Thursday 10-4, Friday 10-4, and Saturday 11-3. Bring your mask and head to the Thrift Shop for local holiday treats.

By Sarah Opdahl