In 1997, volunteers started a thrift shop in Georgia; it has since grown into a $9.5 million community initiative supporting charities, funding scholarships and helping families in need

What began as a small volunteer-run thrift shop in Peachtree City, Georgia, has grown into a community initiative that has generated more than $9.5 million for local causes since 1997. Founded by MaryAnn Cox and Joan Velsmid, Clothes Less Traveled started with a simple idea: collect unwanted belongings, sell them at affordable prices and use the money to support people who need help. Nearly three decades later, the non-profit has expanded its operations, supported more than 100 charitable organisations over its history and helped students pursue higher education through scholarships. Its work also extends to families struggling to afford everyday essentials, who can receive assistance through a voucher programme run in partnership with local organisations.How a Georgia thrift shop grew into a $9.5 million community initiativeThe idea took shape when Cox and Velsmid noticed that donated clothes were accumulating at Cox's office at Holy Trinity Catholic Church. Rather than let the items go unused, the two decided to create a place where donated goods could be resold and the proceeds directed towards community needs.They opened their first shop on Huddleston Road in Peachtree City in 1997. The store was built around a straightforward model: people donate items they no longer need, shoppers buy them at affordable prices, and the money raised supports local charitable work.Over the years, the initiative grew beyond its original premises. Clothes Less Traveled now operates a large flagship store in Peachtree City and opened a second location in Newnan, Georgia, in August 2025. Its operations also include an online store through which selected items are sold.How the thrift shop supports charities across GeorgiaClothes Less Traveled directs the money generated through its sales towards grants for non-profit organisations working in the local community. Its support has reached causes involving education, animal welfare, domestic violence prevention, conservation and assistance for vulnerable residents.The organisation's website reports that it has provided more than $9.5 million in community support since its founding. It also says that more than 100 charitable organisations have benefited from its work over the years.The grant programme allows local non-profits to seek funding for their activities and services. In 2025, the organisation announced grants worth $333,250 for 56 local groups, according to local reporting.How volunteering at the store can help students pay for collegeEducation is another important part of the initiative. Clothes Less Traveled awards scholarships to students who contribute their time to its shops, linking community service with financial support for higher education.Its scholarship programme includes opportunities for high school seniors and college students who meet specified volunteering requirements. High school seniors need at least 40 hours of volunteer service, while college students need at least 20 hours to qualify for consideration.The organisation also offers the Dick and Jan Allis Service Scholarships, which recognise students who record the highest number of volunteer hours. Its website reports that it has awarded $280,000 in scholarships since 1997.The initiative helps families access everyday essentialsThe organisation's work also reaches people who may not be able to afford even the reduced prices at a thrift shop. Through its voucher programme, partner organisations refer individuals and families who need assistance. Those referred can then select essential items from the store without having to pay for them.The programme works with community groups that support people facing financial difficulties and other challenges. This allows Clothes Less Traveled to provide practical help while making use of the donated clothing, furniture and household goods it receives.From its beginnings as a small shop run by volunteers, the initiative has developed into a broader community-support operation, turning pre-owned goods into funding for charities, education and families across the region.You use AI every day. Now get your AI Quotient. Take the AIQ test.