TRANSLATE THIS PAGE
About the Free Store
The Free Store provides clothing, shoes, household items, and other essentials, free of charge, to individuals and families in Mecklenburg County, with no income qualification required.
Each household, including multiple families residing at the same address, may visit once every 30 days. Appointments are no longer required in order to shop.
Walk-in customers are welcome during store hours, Tuesday - Saturday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. No appointment needed!
Scheduled Appointments are also available. For a guaranteed shopping time, you may make an appointment. Appointments can be made up to 2 weeks in advance, but fill quickly and may be booked weeks out. An appointment is not required to shop.
Appointments are not required to shop.
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.
- 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.