It’s that time of year again— backpacks are getting dusted off, class schedules are printing, and your shopping list somehow keeps getting longer. Between school clothes, dorm room supplies, and everything in between, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed (and over budget).
The good news? You don’t have to spend big to send your student off in style. At the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Los Angeles thrift stores, we’ve got everything you need to make this school year a success, from fashion-forward outfits to functional furniture for college dorms.
And the best part? Every purchase supports our mission to serve those in need across Los Angeles. So yes, you really can shop with heart.
Style That Makes the Grade
Let’s start with the clothes. Whether your kid is entering kindergarten or kicking off college, fresh outfits are a must. At SVDPLA, our racks are fully stocked with everything from classic basics to statement pieces, perfect for building a wardrobe that’s both practical and personal.
You’ll find gently worn denim, graphic tees, crisp button-downs, comfy hoodies, and fall-ready layers like flannels and jackets. Bonus: we often see brand names and tags still attached. If you’ve got a fashion-forward teen or a kid who loves to express themselves through their clothes, thrifting is the best way to create looks that are totally unique, and totally budget-friendly.
And yes, we’ve got shoes too. Sneakers, boots, loafers, whether it’s for the classroom, gym, or school dance floor.
Bags, Books & Everything In Between
Backpacks are a back-to-school staple, and we’ve got plenty. From classic Jansport styles to unexpected designer gems (yes, really), it’s always worth a look. While you’re at it, browse the accessories section for pencil pouches, lunchboxes, water bottles, and school supplies.
Dorm Room Essentials, Thrift Store Style
If your kid is heading off to college, don’t sleep on the home goods section.
Dorm life may be compact, but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring. We’ve seen it all, cozy throw blankets, string lights, lamps, mirrors, even wall art that brings personality to those blank dorm walls. Our shelves are lined with dorm must-haves like:
- Small kitchen appliances (think coffee makers, toasters, and sometimes even mini-fridges)
- Desk organizers and bulletin boards
- Storage bins, hampers, and rolling carts
- Cute mugs, dishes, and silverware for late-night snacks or ramen marathons
Whether you’re decorating on a budget or just looking to find pieces that feel like “home,” you’ll be surprised by what you can discover in-store.
Don’t Forget the Unexpected Treasures
One of the best things about thrifting is the thrill of the find. You never know what you’ll come across, a vintage backpack, a stylish coat, a reading lamp that actually sparks joy. We’ve even seen board games, water bottles, Halloween costumes (never too early), and dorm-sized furniture make their way onto the floor.
Plus, if you’re a teacher getting your classroom ready, we’ve got supplies, décor, and even professional attire for those parent-teacher nights.
Where to Find Us
Ready to start your secondhand school supply haul? Visit our thrift stores in Los Angeles and Long Beach:
📍210 N. Avenue 21, Los Angeles 90031
📍2750 E. Pacific Coast Hwy., Long Beach 90804
🅿️ Free onsite parking
⏰ Mon – Sat: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM & Sun: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
You can also learn more at svdpla.org/thrift-stores
One Last Thing…
When you shop at SVDPLA thrift stores, you’re not just saving money, you’re making a difference. Every purchase helps fund programs that support individuals and families across our city. So this back-to-school season, choose a smarter, more sustainable way to shop.
Come see for yourself—we’re ready for you.
