Cold weather heats up thrift stores

MADISON (WKOW) -- The chilly weather has many people rushing to buy winter clothes, and local thrift stores are seeing more customers coming in and heading straight for the winter coats, boots and sweaters.

"The change in weather brings people out to make a change in their wardrobe," said Judy Purcell, who works at the Hospice Care Thrift Store.

"With winter, people suddenly find that what little they have is even more inadequate than they thought," said Ernie Stetenfeld, community relations director for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. "When we get an early cold snap like this, people become aware suddenly that their kids need coats."

The sour economy could also be a factor in the sudden rush to shop at thrift stores.

"I've always been a bargain hunter, but I guess everyone's a bargain hunter these days," said shopper Lauren Cascio.

"Thrift is something people turn to in tight times, and we're glad to be able to meet that need," said Stetenfeld.

But with such high demand, it could be difficult to keep thrift stores stocked.

"People are buying less, so they aren't replacing as many clothes, which could hurt our supply," said Stetenfeld.

Purcell said so far this season, Hospice Care Thrift Store has plenty of clothes. Still, she knows in a business that relies on donations, she doesn't take anything for granted.

For now, she's just hoping as the weather cools down, donations to her store will heat up.

Here is a list of places looking for winter weather clothing donations:

St. Vincent de Paul's Thrift Store Locator

Hospice Care Thrift Store

Goodwill

Salvation Army Thrift Store 

As published on WKOW-TV.com: http://www.wkowtv.com/Global/story.asp?s=11295539&