Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Thrifting for a Great Cause

Laura Desatiago gives with her heart.

“I come in every day. It’s helping someone,” Desantiago says.

She volunteers an hour of her time every day to clean and stock the Discovery Shop.

“My brother died in 2019 of leukemia. And so, I get emotional that eventually, they’ll find a cure for Leukemia or for cancer.”

The Discovery Shop in Fresno is filled with all sorts of donated goods, perfect for those who enjoy thrifting.

“We have a lot of beautiful home decor,” said store manager Bonnie O’Neal. “We have items for cooking, entertainment. We have artwork, jewelry and shoes, and handbags–what women love. It’s beautiful; it’s displayed well, and it doesn’t smell like a thrift store.

Denise Noel started the shop in 1965. She hobnobbed with the Hollywood elite to sell their donated goods and raise money for the American Cancer Society.

“And if you need a wig, come on in. You can pick one out, and if you need another one, absolutely,” said O’Neal.

What makes this thrift store unique is a portion of the proceeds benefits the American Cancer Society.

“The Fresno store is running about 50 to 60% of every dollar that comes in goes back to research, education, and patient programs,” O’Neal said.

If you cannot make it to the store in person, they also have an eBay store where you can buy thrifty things like an Xbox360 or jewelry all while supporting a great cause.

The Discovery Shop is hosting its Couture for a Cure event on Thursday, October 28. They’ll showcase high-end designer handbags, clothing, and shoes. For more information about the Discovery Shop, click here.