In the heart of Clifton, Colorado, a local thrift store turned the holiday into a beacon of hope by opening its doors on Christmas Day. The Community Thrift Store provided free meals, gifts, and a sense of family to those in need, stepping up when most businesses shut down for the day.
This act of kindness happened on December 25, 2025, drawing families and individuals who might have spent the holiday alone. The store, which opened earlier this year, aimed to spread love and support through its community focused efforts.
A Warm Welcome on a Cold Holiday
The Community Thrift Store in Clifton stayed open while other spots closed, offering a full Christmas dinner to anyone who walked in. This included turkey, sides, and desserts, all prepared by volunteers and staff.
Executive Director Kimberly Cabeceiris shared that the goal was to create a family like atmosphere. She has spent years in humanitarian work and saw this as a way to give back during a tough time for many.
Families arrived throughout the day, some traveling from nearby Grand Junction. The event not only fed people but also built connections in a community hit hard by recent economic challenges.
The store’s location in the Peach Tree Shopping Center made it easy for locals to join. By evening, dozens had enjoyed the meal, leaving with full bellies and smiles.
Gifts and Goodies for All Ages
Beyond the food, the thrift store gave away free toys and children’s books to ensure no kid missed out on holiday joy. This gesture touched many parents facing tight budgets this year.
Adults received a small gift too, worth about five dollars from the store’s inventory. It was a simple way to make everyone feel included.
Cabeceiris explained that these giveaways came from donations collected over months. The store sorted items to match different ages and interests.
One parent mentioned how the free books sparked excitement in her young son. Stories like this showed the real impact of the event.
The thrift store plans to make this an annual tradition, building on the success of 2025.
The Giving Table and Daily Support
At the front of the store sits the giving table, stocked with canned goods and essentials for anyone in need. This feature runs year round and played a key role during the Christmas event.
People could grab items like soup, pasta, and hygiene products without any questions asked. It helped stretch the holiday cheer beyond just one day.
Volunteers kept the table full, drawing from community donations. This setup reflects the store’s mission to support those struggling with food insecurity.
In 2025, with rising costs, such resources have become vital. Local reports note a spike in demand for aid in the Grand Junction area.
The table also encouraged visitors to donate back when they could, creating a cycle of giving.
Here are some items commonly found on the giving table:
- Canned vegetables and fruits
- Pasta and rice packs
- Soap and toothpaste
- Warm socks and gloves
Community Impact and Broader Trends
This Christmas event ties into a growing trend of thrifting and community support amid economic pressures. In 2025, more people turned to thrift stores for affordable holiday options, with sales up by 15 percent nationwide according to retail data.
In Clifton, the store’s opening replaced an old Salvation Army spot, bringing fresh energy to the area. It has quickly become a hub for locals seeking bargains and help.
Similar efforts popped up in other towns, like Louisville’s Thriftmas events, where secondhand gifts saved families money. These stories highlight how communities adapt to challenges.
The thrift store’s work aligns with national pushes for sustainable shopping. Experts say thrifting reduces waste and supports local economies.
| Trend | 2025 Impact | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Thrifting Growth | Up 15% in sales | More holiday shoppers choose secondhand |
| Community Meals | Increased demand | Events like Clifton’s feed hundreds |
| Donation Drives | Higher participation | Toys and food collected year round |
| Economic Savings | Families save 50% on gifts | Thriftmas trends cut costs in half |
Looking Ahead to Future Traditions
Cabeceiris hopes to expand the event next year, perhaps adding live music or more activities for kids. She dedicated her life to this work and sees it as a light in dark times.
The store continues daily operations, inviting donations and visits. It stands as a reminder that small acts can make big differences.
As holidays wrap up, stories like this inspire others to give back. In a year marked by events like rising thrift trends and community resilience, Clifton’s effort shines bright.
Share your thoughts on community events like this in the comments below, or pass this story along to friends who might want to get involved.
