News & Updates

The second week of February (Feb. 8-Feb. 14, 2026) is National Secondhand Shopping Week, celebrating the impact of thrifting and secondhand shopping. While the week shines a spotlight on reuse and sustainability, the benefits of shopping secondhand last all year long.

Choosing pre-loved items over new ones isn’t just about vintage finds or bargain hunting; it’s a practical, value-based decision that benefits your personal finances, your community, and the environment.

At Evergreen Credit Union, we believe smart financial choices can also support community well-being and environmental responsibility. Shopping secondhand is a small, thoughtful choice that leads to meaningful, community-centered impact.

A Smart Move for Your Personal Finances

The most immediate benefit of thrifting is also one of the most important: savings.

Secondhand items, like clothing, furniture, recreational gear, or household goods, are generally priced below their original retail value. Your dollar stretches further, helping you stick to a budget without sacrificing quality or style.

Over time, these savings add up. Spending less on everyday purchases can free up money to:

• Build an emergency fund
• Pay down debt
• Save for long-term goals like homeownership or retirement

Thrifting also encourages more intentional spending. When you slow down and shop thoughtfully, you’re less likely to make impulse purchases and more likely to buy items you’ll actually value and utilize.

Reducing Environmental Impact, One Purchase at a Time

Shopping secondhand is one of the easiest ways you can reduce your environmental footprint. The production of new clothing requires significant resources, including water, energy, and raw materials. Many garments are discarded long before they wear out, increasing their impact of pollution and waste.

By choosing secondhand, you help:

• Reduce textile waste in landfills
• Extend the life of existing clothing
• Lower demand for new garment production

According to environmental studies, the fashion industry alone is responsible for a substantial share of global emissions and water use. Buying secondhand helps slow this cycle and supports reuse and longevity of clothing.

Supporting Small Businesses and Community Organizations

Many secondhand stores are locally owned, nonprofit-based, or community-run. When you shop there, your money stays in your community.

Local thrift shops often:

• Create jobs and volunteer opportunities within the community
• Partner with nonprofits or social services and support charitable programs
• Provide affordable access to quality clothing for all income levels

In Maine and communities like ours, secondhand stores also play an important role in providing affordable, accessible goods.

Simple Ways to Get Started

If you’re new to thrifting, start small:

• Visit a local thrift or consignment shop
• Check community resale events or swap groups online
• Donate gently used clothing to keep it in circulation

Like saving money, thrifting is a habit that grows over time. One purchase or donation can make a difference.

Small Choices, Lasting Impact

National Secondhand Wardrobe Week highlights how everyday financial decisions, like how we shop for clothing, can create meaningful change. Choosing secondhand is a step toward stronger personal finances, a healthier planet, and a more connected community.

At Evergreen Credit Union, we believe financial well-being goes hand in hand with community well-being. By choosing secondhand when you can, you’re investing in both.