For over 50 years, Twice Is Nice Thrift Store has been helping those in need in Hutchinson, Minnesota. More than just a thrift store, this nonprofit organization owned by the local church and run by Angie Lombard, is an amazing community outreach, offering affordable goods, supporting local charities, and uplifting individuals and families in need.
Located on Maplewood Academy grounds and open three days a week, Twice Is Nice serves as a resource for shoppers looking for budget-friendly items and for those seeking support in times of hardship. Each year, the store donates approximately $3,400 worth of clothing and household goods to community members through partnerships with organizations like Common Cup Ministries and the McLeod Alliance for Domestic Violence. These items are distributed through a referral process, ensuring they reach people experiencing real need. Last year alone, more than 100 people were blessed by donations to help them through crisis.
The store also collaborates with the Disabled American Veterans by donating any items that cannot be sold in-store. This effort reduces waste and furthers the mission of supporting those who served our country.
A highlight of the store’s seasonal giving is its Thanksgiving Basket Program, which provides 20 families with baskets filled with a Thanksgiving meal, extra groceries, locally sourced apples and baked goods provided by the Hutchinson Seventh-Day Adventist Church community. This program is conducted in cooperation with local social services and exemplifies the store’s commitment to reaching out to those in need.
Twice Is Nice also gives back in financial ways. Each year, the store contributes $4,200 in monetary donations to local nonprofits and community groups. Beneficiaries include Maplewood Academy, Safe Avenues, Birthright, Northwoods, United Community Action Partnership, the local food shelf, Common Cup, and many others—reflecting the store’s wide-reaching community impact.
The store’s operations are made possible by an enthusiastic team of more than 20 volunteers, most of whom are retired. Their efforts span everything from hanging clothes, sorting and pricing goods, and assisting customers. In addition, Twice Is Nice offers community service opportunities and provides work experience for students at Maplewood Academy, encouraging youth engagement and responsibility. All items sold or given away by Twice is Nice have been generously donated by local community and church members.
Twice Is Nice continues to be a place where neighbors support one another and meaningful impact is made every day.
