LISTEN Thrift Stores in the VT and NH Upper Valley

LISTEN Thrift Store FAQs

    • Where can I donate my gently used goods?

      At this time, we are accepting items at the three Donation Centers listed below. Donation hours are listed here: https://www.listencs.org/thrift-stores


      387 Miracle Mile

      Lebanon, NH 


      236 US Rte 4

      Canaan, NH


      42 Maple St.

      White River Junction, VT


      Thank you for donating to LISTEN’s Thrift Stores. All donations and purchases support vital LISTEN programs that provide food, heating, housing, and other assistance to our neighbors across the Upper Valley. Last year, we assisted more than 7,400 community members.

    • What kinds of donated items do you accept and not accept?

      For more details about the types of goods we are accepting at this time and how to prepare before stopping by, please visit our website at https://www.listencs.org/thrift-stores. 


      Thank you for your help adhering to these requirements. Unfortunately, LISTEN spends close to $100,000 every year in dump fees, in part because of trash and unusable items that are left with us. This is an extraordinary amount of money that could otherwise help house and feed so many more of your neighbors. 


      Please visit: https://lebanonnh.gov/450/Solid-WasteRecycling  for information about disposal at Lebanon's Solid Waste & Recycling Facility.

    • Can I drop off donations while your stores are closed?

      No, items must be dropped off during our donation hours to ensure the safety of our donors, customers, and employees, and allow for the efficient processing of donated items.

    • What is the process to drop off donations?

      Bins are located outside of our Donation Centers during donation hours. There are different bins for (1) clothing and soft goods, (2) hard goods, and (3) books. To ensure a quick drop-off experience, please sort items prior to arrival. 

    • Can someone help me unload?

      Yes, our staff would be happy to assist you in unloading to ensure short wait times for other donors.

    • Can I donate furniture?

      Yes. Furniture can be dropped off whenever the Lebanon Donation Center is open. Donation hours can be found here: https://www.listencs.org/thrift-stores


      To schedule a furniture pick-up, please call (603) 448-4553. 

    • Are there dressing rooms available in your Thrift Stores?

      Yes, dressing rooms are available.

    • Where do I find more information about upcoming sales at your Thrift Stores?

      Our sales calendar is posted on our Facebook page and website. Flyers are also available in each store.

    • I could use financial assistance to purchase clothing, furniture or other household items at LISTEN’s stores. Can you help?

      Yes, LISTEN offers voucher assistance. Please call our office (603) 448-4553 to make an appointment with a Service Coordinator to discuss your needs. Though our Thrift Stores help provide our community with gently used clothing and furniture, we understand that these items are out of reach for some. Vouchers are provided for eligible clients so that they can shop for their own clothing and furniture independently. 

    • Can I purchase a gift card for your Thrift Stores?

      Yes, we have gift cards. Please stop by any store to purchase a gift card.

    • How can I get involved and support LISTEN?

      You can support LISTEN by donating goods, making a financial contribution, or volunteering your time. Each act of generosity helps us provide essential services like food, heating, and housing assistance to our neighbors in the Upper Valley.


      Visit our website to learn more about how you can get involved and make a lasting impact. By engaging with us, you’re not just giving — you’re joining a community committed to helping one another. THANK YOU!

    If you wish to schedule a FURNITURE pick up, please visit our Furniture Pick-up Form.

    Donating Items to LISTEN? Here's What You Need to Know for Tax Purposes

    Thank you for supporting LISTEN! Your in-kind donations make a real difference in our community. If you're planning to claim a tax deduction for your donation, the IRS has some documentation requirements you should know about. Here's a simple guide to help:


    1. Itemize on Your Tax Return

    To claim a deduction, you must itemize deductions on your federal tax return (Form 1040, Schedule A).


    2. Keep a Donation Receipt

    We provide a form for you to fill out at drop-off. This includes:

    • Date of your donation
    • Brief description of donated items


    We do not assign a dollar value to your donation. It's up to you to determine the fair market value of the items you gave. LISTEN does not keep a copy of your donation receipt


    3. Determine the Fair Market Value

    Fair market value is what someone would reasonably pay for the item in its current condition. The IRS has guidelines and tools (like the Salvation Army or Goodwill Valuation Guide) to help you estimate value.


    4. Special Rules for Larger Donations

    • Over $500? You must file Form 8283 with your tax return.
    • Over $5,000? You’ll also need a qualified appraisal for most items.


    5. Condition of Items

    Only items in good used condition or better are eligible for a deduction. The IRS does not allow deductions for broken or heavily worn items.

    Helpful Tip: It’s a good idea to make a list or take photos of your donated items and keep them with your tax records.

    If you have questions, consult a tax professional or visit irs.gov for more details.

    Thank you for giving generously to LISTEN!

    LISTEN COMMUNITY SERVICES

    How We Help Our Upper Valley Community

    canaan clothing store

    When you donate goods or shop with us, the proceeds stay local and benefit our community. We employ many people from Vermont and Hampshire, and 25% of the stores’ revenue support LISTEN’s programs that provide food, heating, and housing assistance to our neighbors in need.

    Upper Valley thrift Stores

    We help you to save money! Our three thrift stores provide affordable, second-hand items at discounted prices. We also offer many “sale days” each week, and organize several seasonal and holiday sales.



    

    lebanon NH thrift store

    Donating and buying from a thrift shop is an excellent way to reuse and recycle items such as clothes, electronics, and furniture. Together we are decreasing the waste going to landfills and the number of new items that need to be created. Thoughtful consumption and less pollution is a win-win for all of us!

    A black and white silhouette of a heart on a white background.

    Volunteers are needed at our thrift stores.

    Volunteering is not only a great way to give back to the Upper Valley but a way to get to learn more about LISTEN and the impact we have within the community.


    The gift of your time supports our community. Volunteers for LISTEN sort clothes and housewares, and more. Everyone is welcome! Come alone or with your family, colleagues, or other small group. 

    Become a Volunteer
    A group of people are standing around a cart filled with clothes.

    Questions about LISTEN's Thrift Stores

    Thrift Store Questions