Keeping it thrifty in Fox Chase

The great recession continues as many still struggle with unemployment and disposable income reduces. As prices in retail stores continue to increase where does one turn for basic needs?

In Fox Chase, there are three options for those looking for a deal on clothing, household needs and art. The two main stays are The Jeanes Hospital Thrift Shop located at 7963 Oxford Ave. and The Medical Mission Sisters Thrift Shop located in the old boat house on the campus at 8400 Pine Rd.  The third, Ivy’s Vintage Shop, recently opened at 1105 Bleigh Ave. in Burholme  All of the shops accept donated items.

The Thrift Shop

Formerly known as The Opportunity Shop, this store is manned by a staff that is courteous. The store has a large inventory of women’s clothing and shoes, including designer items. In addition to a men’s and children’s section, the store has a small knick-knack section and sells things like glassware and kitchenware. The store runs sales on a regular basis to dispose of stock. Parking is available in front of the store or across the street adjacent to Lions Park.

Medical Mission Sisters Thrift Shop

The largest of the thrift shops in Fox Chase, this shop is located in what was once known as The Boat House in the rear of the beautiful Medical Mission Sisters Campus. The store has an extensive clothing section for all members of the family, vintage jewelry and collectables. This store has a large collection of wall art, vases and crystal to include vintage tea sets, glassware and figurines from all over the world.

In addition to thrift shop items, this shop offers candles and cards created by The Medical Mission Sister to include water color paintings. The Sisters run regular sales each month often with up to 50 percent off selected items in the store. Parking is available at the store.

Ivy’s Vintage Shop

This shop is the newest of its kind in Fox Chase. The store is small and quaint. Ivy Cruz, the shop owner, is friendly and accommodating.  While not as large as the two mainstays, Ivy’s carries lamps, small furniture pieces, some art work, arts and crafts and jewelry in addition to various household items and knick-knacks. Ivy’s also caters to neighborhood children looking for that special gift for mom and dad. The store is packed with items, yet uncluttered and well-presented. Street parking is available.

If the economy has you down and you’re in need of a particular item or a quality used item, it may pay to visit these three thrift/vintage shops in Fox Chase. All three stores are open on weekdays and Saturday. Hours do vary.

G.E. Reutter resides in the Fox Chase. You can visit him at his website. You can read his Fox Chase articles for NEast Philly here.