LEWES—Grants to improve housing and feed the hungry in Sussex County will soon be available from the Lewes-Rehoboth Association of Congregations (LRAC).
LRAC raises more than $1 million a year from donations and sales at its New Life Thrift Store in Lewes. About 85 percent of that money funds a variety of programs throughout the county aimed at alleviating homelessness and hunger. Eighteen organizations received grants in 2026.
“For everybody who donates their goods to New Life Thrift Shop, or who volunteers their time, or who shop there and spend their treasure there, we are very grateful,” said Marti Garrett, LRAC’s president. “We believe in loving our neighbor and helping our neighbor, as we are taught to do.”
Thrifting’s increasing popularity fuels the success of LRAC in serving the community.
According to Capital One Shopping Research, American thrift shoppers save an average of $1,452 per year.
· About one-third of apparel purchases in the U.S. are secondhand.
· In 2025, the U.S. secondhand market was worth $56 billion, up 14.3% year-over-year.
· Since 2018, thrifting has grown 143.5% in terms of market value.
· 83% of Gen Z (born 1997 to 2012) consumers either thrift or wish to.
· 93% of Americans shop online for secondhand items.
LRAC’s ministry partners include eleven congregations. New Life Thrift Store is located at 34686 Jiffy Way in Lewes, on the northbound side of Coastal Highway next to Bethany Blues. LRAC recently produced a short video on the store and what it generates for the community.
From top, Sandy Purdy, Wanda Salem, and Doreen Healy volunteer at New Life Thrift Store. If you are interested in volunteering, stop by and fill out an application.