The Communities in Schools Thrift Store at 1058 N. Business I‑35 in New Braunfels reopened in July following a three‑month renovation that modernized the space and expanded its ability to serve local families.

Renovation upgrades improve accessibility

Store manager Trina Fritts explained that staff deep‑cleaned the building, resealed and polished the floors, and rearranged fixtures to create a more accessible layout. New fitting rooms were installed, and both the interior and exterior received fresh paint. The parking lot was repaved, adding designated donor spaces, and the driveway was widened to ease traffic flow.

Every purchase supports education

According to Susan Wetz, chief executive officer of Communities in Schools of South Central Texas, 100 % of the revenue generated by the thrift store is funneled back to students who need extra assistance staying in school. The store distributes shopping vouchers that families can use to buy clothing, books, toys and other essentials.

Wetz recalled a recent encounter with a parent who faced significant life changes and needed a new outfit for a job interview. “To see her take that next step and to feel empowered is a beautiful thing,” she said, highlighting the store’s role in removing barriers to education and employment.

Donation guidelines keep inventory useful

The thrift store accepts a range of donated items, including clothing, books, toys, furniture and home décor. Items that are broken, damaged, large appliances, outdated electronics, mattresses, box springs, or used undergarments are not accepted. Donations must also be dropped off during store hours, as noted on the store’s website.

Community impact and future plans

Fritts emphasized that the thrift store is more than a retail outlet; it is a community‑driven initiative that “bypasses barriers to education and funds the caring network of support that keeps local kids in school and on the path to graduation.” She added, “When a neighborhood invests in its schools through local initiatives like this thrift store, the school invests right back, building a stronger, more resilient foundation for everyone. We are all better together.”

The renovated store is expected to attract more donors and shoppers, increasing the funds available for student vouchers and expanding the reach of Communities in Schools’ mission throughout New Braunfels and the surrounding South Central Texas region.

Original reporting: Community Impact — Austin — read the source article.