Charity Shop Gems in Spain

Sitting outside a bar from January to April we often giggle at the difference between an obvious holidaymaker in shorts and t-shirt, whilst us residents sit in 20 degrees with 3 layers & still shivering. When moving to Spain, many people make the mistake of ditching their trusted winter wardrobe in favour of holiday attire, assuming they’ll never need warm clothing again - then the reality hits! While Spain is known for its sunshine, the winters can be surprisingly chilly. This is when the trusty charity shops come in very handy. A treasure trove of bargains and unique finds, including that large baggy jumper to help keep you warm until the summer finds its way back.

Why Shop at a Charity Shop?

Charity shops and the various activities they organise play a vital role in communities by supporting local initiatives, funding vital services, and providing purpose and opportunities for volunteers. Many people, whether retirees looking for something meaningful to do, students gaining work experience, or individuals simply wanting to give back, find a sense of purpose and connection by helping out in charity shops. Let's support them more!

  1. Whether you're on the hunt for some last minute winter clothing or items to decorate your new Spanish home, charity shops offer something for everyone. Each purchase contributes to the organisation it supports. Whether it's funding animal rescues, the elderly or helping disadvantaged communities, you know your money is making a difference. 
  2. With rising costs of living, charity shops provide an affordable alternative to high-street retailers, a budget-friendly option for people like me who hate spending lots of their hard-earned pennies on what's classed as the “latest fashion”. By shopping second-hand, you’re helping to reduce waste and extend the lifespan of perfectly good items. Someone’s junk is another person's treasure and all that!
  3. Beyond the financial and environmental benefits, shopping in a charity shop is also an adventure in itself. Unlike high-street stores that stock mass-produced items, charity shops offer a unique and ever-changing selection. You never know what you might find – a designer bargain, a vintage gem, or a quirky item that adds character to your home. So next time you're out shopping, why not pop into a local charity shop. Whether you’re saving money, finding hidden treasures, or supporting a cause close to your heart, you’ll walk away knowing you’ve made a difference.

How Can You Help a Charity Shop?

Beyond shopping, there are plenty of ways to support charity shops: 

  • Do you have a growing pile of clothes, books, or home ware you no longer need? Consider donating them instead of throwing them away. 
  • Many charity shops rely on volunteers to help sort donations, work the till, and keep the store running, do you have some time each week to help? 
  • Spread the word either word of mouth or by sharing their social media posts with their latest news and events. 
  • And of course attend the events too!

Charity Shop Days

I regularly have a charity shop day. I bag up clothes and items that I no longer want and give to a local charity shop. Then I visit all the shops in one hit, to buy more lol. Next time you're out shopping, why not include your local charity shops and see what hidden gems are there. You’ll be surprised what you can find if you look hard enough, and you will be supporting a good cause too.

Calling all Charity Shops

Do you own or volunteer at a charity shop within a 10km radius of Albox? 
Please consider adding some information in the comments, and I will compose a list for this page. Provide the:

  1. Charity Name
  2. Website Address 
  3. Short bio to help raise awareness 
  4. Location (i.e Albox / Arboleas)
  5. Shop opening times

I look forward to putting that list together.


Previous comments

Vanya Ager
"Age Support Almanzora is a local (registered) charity shop and Welfare Services based in Albox just off the Ava Lepanto roundabout opposite the Peugeot showrooms. We open Monday to Saturday from 10.00am until 1.45pm. We have a great team offering the best service and sell only good quality items of clothing, bric-a-brac and electrical appliances. We are currently asking for any donations of bric-a-brac and kitchen items and spring/summer clothing and accessories. The Welfare team provide advice on a variety of issues, loan mobility aids, and assist with Attendance Allowance applications etc. Our Befrienders provide an invaluable service visiting those in need on a regular basis. If you are thinking of volunteering for a few hours a week, look no further. We would welcome you into our team, please pop in for a chat to find out more or call 642045210. Thank you for taking the time to read this post. "
Helping Animals Almanzora
"We are a legally registered Animal Charity based in Arboleas. You can find us opposite the Arboleas Town Hall Square. Opening hours Monday-Friday, 10-1.30pm. We are always grateful for donations of your unwanted items to help us continue to help Animals in need & where a warm welcome to our Shop awaits you. "

 

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