St. Vincent de Paul Society Thrift Store
 
In 1971, the Rev. Msgr. Paul D. Gleason saw a dire need for giving a helping hand to those less fortunate in the area. Thus, within a few months, a charitable organization of fifteen members emerged and the resulting St. Vincent de Paul Society opened the Thrift Store. This society emulates the motto of St. Vincent de Paul, "By our works we are known."
 
Approximately forty volunteers operate the current inner city neighborhood thrift shop at 276 Main Street, Lewiston.

People drop by with donations of clothes, items for the home, trinkets and money.  We ask that donations not be left at the door if the store is closed.  Regrettably the society is unable to pick up donations or to accept furniture or large electrical items such as refrigerators, televisions, etc.  Prices at the store range from a few cents to a few dollars; half price sales and brown bag sales are popular attractions that make the store even more affordable to those in need.
 
The Society will also provide help to those who, through unfortunate circumstances such as fire or loss of employment, are unable to purchase necessities of clothing, bedding, housewares, etc.  St. Vincent’s offers two scholarships per year to area high school seniors wanting to enter college.  Applications can be picked up at any area high school offices during the month of March.
 
Each year the Society sponsors a "Christmas Basket Appeal" which generates donations of foods and gifts for the less fortunate.  In 2010, the appeal helped 109 families totaling over 300 individuals.
 
The St. Vincent de Paul Society is a non-profit charitable benevolent society of lay people who meet at least once a week.  Any lay person eighteen years or older may become an active member. The work is light and the hours can be as few as one morning or one afternoon a month, or as many hours as your schedule allows.
 
If you are interested in volunteering or just want to know more about us, come visit us and speak to one of our volunteers. You may also call us at 207-782-8309.
 
Location:          276 Main Street, Lewiston, ME 04240