Feeling Thrifty on the NoFo: Southold Thrift Store Helps Save Cats

In a two-bedroom house visible from Route 48 in Southold, cat lovers can find a thrift store whose proceeds go to help homeless and needy cats.

The SAVES, Inc. (Spay, Alter, Vaccinate Every Stray) thrift shop is starting its third year at its permanent location on Horton’s Lane in Southold. The group organized as a non-profit in 1996 and has been helping needy cats ever since. Proceeds from the store help defray veterinary costs for its trap, neuter and release program. Money also helps support cats and kittens fostered at homes throughout the North Fork and rescue cats offered for adoption at Petco in Riverhead.

Carole Marcus is treasurer of the group and, after a number of years of planning, has seen the thrift store become a reality. She said they carry new and used furniture, household items, glassware, antiques and more. Last year, they were given an estate and it really helped business.

“We’ve done really well. Antique dealers come in and buy stuff all the time,” Marcus said.

Marcus said the goods are priced fairly but that they encourage shoppers to ask them if they can do better on a price. She said because there is so much stuff in the store, not everything gets marked and the policy is “if you don’t see a price, make an offer.”

Unlike some of the other local thrift stores, the SAVES thrift shop does not carry clothing because it does not have the space or volunteers required to carry used clothing.

Marcus said the merchandise turnover rate is high despite the limited hours the store is open. Regular customers come in every week to see new items.

Donations are accepted on Saturdays and by appointment via the SAVES hotline.

Marcus said that volunteers are desperately needed to help man the shop. The store is currently only open on Saturdays between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. and they hope to open on some Sundays as well. What is holding the group back now is finding people to operate the store, she said.

“Our ultimate goal is to be open three or four days a week to help pay for vet bills,” Marcus said.

In addition to the regular thrift store hours, the organization holds an annual yard sale and several fundraisers each year to help run the free spay/neuter clinic.

“Every dollar raised goes to help cats,” Marcus said.

To volunteer or make a donation to the SAVES thrift store, please call the hotline at 631-722-0015.