Reporter: Bianca Smith
•6/17/2026
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA, (WINK) — After visiting more than 100 thrift stores across Southwest Florida, Kelly Chenault has turned her passion for secondhand shopping into a growing online community.
Chenault runs the social media account 'SWFLGulfcoastthrift,' where she shares her favorite finds, shopping tips, and insider advice for fellow thrift enthusiasts. With more than 10,000 followers, what started as a hobby has become a way to connect shoppers with unique treasures throughout the region.
"It's like hunting for buried treasure," Chenault said. "I love the thrill of thrifting. With the power of social media, I can share it with others now."
In Collier County alone, there are roughly 40 thrift and resale stores. Chenault said Southwest Florida's large retiree population creates a unique thrifting environment, with many residents regularly donating quality items.
"We have a high number of retired folks who are always donating so many vintage items and treasures," Chenault said. "A lot of these things are new with tags, so why not pay thrift store prices to get something brand new?"
While many shoppers are drawn in by the potential bargains, Chenault said thrifting can offer much more than savings. Many local resale shops support charitable organizations and community programs.
One example is The Shelter Options Shoppe in Naples.
Located in downtown Naples, the store is owned and operated by The Shelter for Abused Women & Children, Collier County's certified domestic violence center. Shoppers can browse clothing, accessories, furniture, home décor, and designer items, all donated by community members. Proceeds from sales help fund services for survivors of domestic violence and their families.
The shop has served Southwest Florida since 1991 and has become much more than a place to find secondhand goods. In addition to generating funding for The Shelter's programs, survivors receive vouchers that allow them to shop for clothing, household items, and other necessities as they work to rebuild their lives.
Those programs focus on protecting victims, preventing abuse, and helping survivors move forward safely and independently.
For Chenault, stores like The Shelter Options Shoppe highlight one of the biggest benefits of thrifting: supporting the local community.
"There's so much community support," Chenault said. "Your resale and thrift stores are directly benefiting the community and keeping the money local within our community."
As social media continues to shine a spotlight on thrift culture, more shoppers are discovering the benefits of buying secondhand. Whether it's finding a one-of-a-kind vintage piece, saving money, or supporting a meaningful cause, Southwest Florida's thrift stores offer far more than meets the eye.
For many shoppers, the thrill of the hunt is what brings them through the door. For organizations like The Shelter, those same purchases help provide hope, resources, and a fresh start for families in need.
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