Jewel’s Gently Used Clothing

In the heart of Perth, Ontario, tucked in a humble storefront lies a place where second-hand treasures support first chances for local youth. That treasure trove is Jewel’s Gently Used Clothing, a volunteer operated thrift store with a mission extending beyond clothing.

In 2005, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lanark County (BBBS) was at a financial crossroads. Government funding was uncertain, and the organization needed a dependable source of income to continue offering its vital mentorship programs for children and youth.

Jewel Purdon, a dedicated board member with a spark of inspiration, saw the potential in a second-hand clothing store, not solely as a business, but so too as a community resource that could sustain the agency’s life changing work.

Her idea became reality in 2010, when the Perth location of Jewel’s opened its doors. Named in Jewels’ honour, the store quickly became more than a shop — it became a symbol of purpose.

Jewel’s accepts donations of gently used clothing and accessories, which are carefully inspected and resold. In regard to proceeds, 100% goes directly to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lanark County, supporting mentorship matches, group programming such as Go Girls, and the WAK initiative in Smiths Falls.

The impact of this organization is real. Youth build confidence, improve their social skills, and gain trusted role models, some of whom experience these aspects for the first time in their lives.

Visit Jewel’s today and you’ll find a clean, thoughtfully arranged shop with new items added daily. A small staff of one manager oversees operations, but it’s the volunteers who bring the store to life by donating their time, pricing items, and helping customers.

In 2023, Big Brothers Big Sisters celebrated its 50th anniversary, which was a major milestone that reflects decades of mentorship, growth, and resilience. And while Jewel’s may be a newer addition to the journey, it has already become an integral part of the story.

With limited sustainable government funding, Big Brothers Big Sisters is constantly exploring new ways to generate income and attract donors. Thrift stores like Jewel’s play a vital role in bridging the gap, but they can’t do it alone. The organization is continually seeking creative ways to engage supporters, raise awareness, and invite the community to be part of their mission. At the same time, finding volunteers has become an ongoing challenge.

“We wish people knew that volunteering doesn’t take as much time as they think, and the impact is massive.”

Jewel’s Gently Used Clothing isn’t just a place to shop. It’s a place where hope is renewed, where second chances are given freely, and where every hanger, every customer, and every volunteer plays a role in helping youth build better futures.

Next time you pass by that little shop in Perth, stop in. You might find a great deal, and most importantly, you’ll find a deeper purpose etched into every corner of the store.

For more information on Jewel’s Gently Used Clothing or Big Brothers Big Sisters, visit their Perth location on Wilson St. or contact them at 613-326-0079.