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About the Free Store
The Free Store offers clothing, shoes, and household essentials free-of-charge to people in Mecklenburg County.
Each household, including multiple families residing at the same address, may visit once every 30 days.
What to Expect
- Bring your own bags to carry home your selections. Reusable canvas bags, totebags, etc., help us be more environmentally and fiscally responsible.
- Walk-in customers are welcome during store hours. However, shoppers who prefer a guaranteed shopping time may make an appointment up to 2 weeks in advance.
- To enhance the shopping experience for all, we welcome up to 3 additional members of your household to accompany you during your shopping visit.
- Upon arrival, you will receive a shopping guide detailing the quantity of items available for selection on that day. This ensures fairness and allows us to accommodate varying inventory and seasonal needs.
- When you enter the store, you will be provided a suggested time frame to complete your selections during your visit to maintain a pleasant shopping environment for all scheduled shoppers.
What to Bring
- Picture ID of the adult who is shopping.
- Social Security documentation for all household members: Social Security (SS) card, documentation from the SS Administration, W2 form from an employer, paystub with a complete SS number or W7 if applicable. If you are not registered with the SS Administration, you must provide some form of ID.
- Bring your own bags to carry home your selections.
Donate to the Free Store
Interested in making a donation to the free store?
Visit our Donate Clothing & Household Goods page for details.