Gently used or new shirts, jackets, pants, shoes and household items, plus books and household goods are well stocked at the Grey Nuns Thrift Shop, participant in an ever-growing voucher program that helps those in need stock up free of charge. Courtesy photo

NASHUA – Baby rompers, shoes, coats, housewares and more are free to locals in need of a little help thanks to an extended collaboration between St. Joseph Hospital’s Grey Nuns Thrift Shop on Nashua’s Main Street and a team of community organizations focused on alleviating a wide variety of neighbors’ needs.

Vouchers for goods at Grey Nuns Thrift Shop continue to be available through a satisfying partnership with several compassionate affiliates. Participants include but are not limited to Bridges, Greater Nashua Mental Health, Harbor Homes, Marguerite’s Place, the Nashua School District and Nashua Soup Kitchen & Shelter.

“We welcome our clients with open arms,” said Michele Canto, director of community ministries. “Vouchers are handled discreetly as clients are supported and extended a helping hand.”

The vouchers cover requests for pants, sweatshirts, coats and other needs. The designated goods are then selected from a substantial inventory at the shop.

Documented in January of 2024 was the provision of $2,641 in needed items to 84 patrons. January of 2025 saw an increase to $5,400 in goods to 142 people. Canto noted the growing impact of community relationships such as this sharing enterprise has comforted a diverse population.

Volunteers and staffers of the Grey Nuns Thrift Shop in Nashua on Main Street recently announced the expansion of a voucher program whereby gently used or new clothing, baby gear, shoes and scores of useful items may be acquired free with a complimentary voucher provided by one or another of nearly a dozen local organizations focused on helping anyone in need. Courtesy photo

“The Grey Nuns opened the thrift shop in 1997 and relocated in 2021 to nearby Main Street to improve the shop’s visibility and accessibility,” added Canto. “Over the years, demand for support has increased and we’re very proud of the fact that we’ve responded by living our Mission to care for the poor and vulnerable in our community.”

The Grey Nuns Thrift Shop, 11 Main St., in Nashua, is open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday with late hours of 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., on Monday and Thursday. More information is available on Facebook or by phone: 603-883-2850.

An adjacent space newly-opened at Nashua’s Grey Nuns Thrift Shop on Main Street offers glassware, home decor, lamps, framed artwork and collectibles plus bedding, craft items and sewing supplies.  Courtesy photo