Calhoun Station Thrift Store

Thirty-six years ago, Jeanne Lee formed a small group of women including Eva Lynn, Margaret Owens, and Margaret Hayward who founded Calhoun Station Thrift Store.

“Back then Bluffton was an itty, bitty crossroads with no stores,” said Linda Collins, who has volunteered there since 2000. “Since there was nothing here, and people were poor, Lee decided to start a thrift store selling ‘good’ things only. It was small and was located on Calhoun Street in Bluffton in an old gas station,” Collins said.

The owner was closing the station and he donated the space to the thrift store. Hence the name Calhoun Station. “Even today people call us thinking we are a train station,” Collins said.

Eventually they moved into their current location at 77 Pritchard Street in Bluffton because they needed more space. This site is behind Town Hall and had been used for storage.

“The Town donates the space and has been real good to us. And they take care of repairs,” Collins explained.

In 2021 a constant roof leak caused the ceiling to start falling down. Major renovations were needed and the Town stepped up.

Collins said, “I make sure that we only sell quality goods that we would wear. The volunteers know that nothing with stains, missing buttons, or broken zippers goes out to be sold. We’re picky about the clothes we put out. Everything has to look good. And we get a lot of clothes that still have the original tags on.”

“We have the cheapest prices for the best merchandise anywhere,” Collins said. “It’s neat and clean with the best buys.”

They do not sell large items like furniture and no electronics. They only accept cash payment because credit card fees and bookkeeping cut into the money that goes to charity.

Every dime they bring in is given to local charities. Any legitimate non-profit that has a 501©3 can apply. There is no form to fill out, and only a letter is required to request funds. The letter should explain what the money is for and how much money is requested. It must be submitted by November 15 each year.

In January the board divides the total money collected during the previous year among the charities that apply. Every organization gets a piece of the pie. In 2025 they awarded grants totaling $35,000.

Over the years, Calhoun Station has awarded grants to organizations like Volunteers in Medicine, Programs for Exceptional People, Resource Foundation, and many more – all providing much needed services to the community.

Calhoun Station has no paid staff, only volunteers. “We have a core base of volunteers, but we always need men and women who can stick with it, who are dedicated,” Collins said. “My only rule is cut and dry. Leave a bad attitude at home and come in with a good attitude.”

“We grow by word of mouth, so come in and tell your friends, and put it on Facebook. Spread the word about Calhoun Station,” Collins said.

Calhoun Station Thrift Store is only open on Wednesday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Edwina Hoyle is a freelance writer in Bluffton.