The Assistance League of San Antonio Thrift House, located at 2611 West Ave., is a treasure-hunter’s dream. You never know just what you’ll find, so it’s a good idea to shop often. Plus, your purchases help support the Assistance League’s many philanthropic programs.

Operation School Bell provides students grades K through 5 with school uniforms or new clothing; Togs for Tots provides infants through pre-K with new clothing; Enhanced Learning provides supplemental teaching materials and equipment to Title I schools, their students and teachers; Adopt a Resident provides assistance to senior citizens, including companionship; qualified junior and senior students attending colleges and universities in Bexar County receive scholarships; and more!

The Assistance League’s slogan is “Caring and Commitment in Action,” and member volunteers donate more than 70,000 hours annually, providing community service that benefits more than 65,000 residents. You can tell the volunteers enjoy what they do because laughter is common. Their easy-going manner and the joy they take in their customers’ finds makes shopping a pleasure.

On my last visit, I scored a first edition hardback book by John McPhee, one of my favorite literary journalists, who is also a favorite of a good friend. (Mike, if you’re reading this, Merry Christmas!) I also picked up an antique stoneware German wine flask. I thought it was a good deal for $10, but when I got to the counter, it was only $5 because all housewares were 50 percent off. Last but not least, I purchased a Valentine’s heart that was wrapped in strips from a pink vintage quilt for 50 cents. I can’t wait to hang it on my door in February.

Be sure to peruse the jewelry and other delicate items in the glass cases at check out, and on your way out, select an item from the FREEBIE bin. One per visit with purchase.

The Thrift House is open Tuesdays through Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Donations are welcomed and may be dropped off during store hours or on Mondays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Assistance League of San Antonio is a non-profit organization, and tax donation receipts are available upon request.

Denise Barkis Richter, Ph.D., has been blogging about San Antonio since June of 2010. Follow her at facebook.com/SanAntonioTourist so that you’ll never miss a post. Her love affair with the Alamo City began at Hemisfair in 1968. She moved to San Antonio in 1979 as an 18-year-old college student, and San Antonio has been her home ever since. Denise completed certification to become a professional tour guide in 2019. Please contact her at sanantoniotourist at gmail dot com if you’d like for her to curate a fabulous San Antonio experience for you!