El Barrio Thrift Store is a Non Profit second-hand store that aims to provide a unique shopping experience to the residents of Spanish Harlem. Unlike a typical retail location, El Barrio Thrifts Store offers resources that are typically unattainable for low income families in the neighborhood. We are a source of relief to all members of the community in need; from newly immigrated families, people out of shelters, prisons, or other city rehabilitation programs, we do our best to get our own back on their feet. Our goal is to provide funding and support to projects that are effectively reinforcing Spanish Harlem sustainability and demonstrate this harmonious, flourishing community we call HOME.
Formerly St. Cecilia’s Thrift Shop at Holy Agony Church, El Barrio Thrift Shop is a volunteer operated thrift store with the financial backing of the New York Catholic Archdiocese. We have been in the community already for 15+ years and have witnessed growth and change in our backyard. The increasing secularism in society has negatively impacted the importance of the Catholic Church at a local level and has hindered its progress. To add, a growing concern is that faithful followers are getting older as the division between younger audiences grow bigger. Unfortunately, religion lost its position as the center of community (for many reasons). It simply isn't as popular as it used to be. As an attempt to regain its place as a community builder, a retail charity became a successful alternative to connect everyone based on humanity. While we are a church organization, we do not preach religion to our customers. We would hate to make anyone feel uncomfortable or unwanted. This isn't the place for that.
Our store is a one-stop-shop for housing all your urban needs such as clothing, kitchenware, electronics, and especially furniture. We bring people together with our services and we aim to become an example of communion with volunteers dedicating their time to our mission. El Barrio Thrifts welcome people from all walks of life, faith and race.
