Thrift for Charity turns second-hand treasures into support for Nova Vita

From left, volunteer Barb Perilli and organizer Sharlene O’Neill are pictured during the Vintage Market downtown Paris this summer.

Rubyyy Jones

Cultural Correspondent

Paris has a reputation for caring deeply about its community, and local residents are continually finding creative ways to bring people together while supporting causes. Paris mom and community facilitator Shar O’Neill is doing just that with Thrift for Charity, a fun indoor event that combines the thrill of thrifting with fundraising for charity. 

The concept came to her in 2005, when she explored the idea of opening a shop out of her heritage home, after having found some treasures that had been left behind when she moved in. Rather than keeping the proceeds for herself, Shar considered how great it would be to benefit local charities. 

In 2022, Shar created a Facebook group that functioned much like an online marketplace, allowing people to buy and sell items while directing the proceeds to a charity of either the buyer’s or seller’s choice. She followed that up with her first pop up event at the Paris Vintage Fest in August of 2026. In just a few short hours, before the rain cancelled the event, she raised over $300 to donate to four different charities: Nova Vita Domestic Violence Prevention Services, Sexual Assault Centre of Brant, Salvation Army, (who operates the Paris Food Bank) and Northern Rescue, an organization that helps animals escape the wildfires in Northern Ontario. 

“I am also passionate about thrifting, because it's a win-win-win: people find items they need or want at great prices, items are kept out of landfills, and those wanting to clear their space can do so knowing their items will continue to be appreciated,” Shar explained. “Adding the charity element is a fourth WIN, and I've been inspired by many wonderful people in my community over the years. 

I intend to continue doing this type of work in my "spare time" as a working single mom. I love the opportunity to meet people face to face and share my excitement for the project!” 

On Saturday, Sept. 12, Thrift for Charity will host its first indoor event at St. Paul’s United Church in downtown Paris from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nova Vita Domestic Violence Prevention Services has been selected as the event’s sole beneficiary, with proceeds from all sales and donations collected at the door going directly to the organization.

Shar shared why she chose Nova Vita. “Intimate partner violence (IPV) rates sadly keep increasing at alarming rates, and as someone who has personally been affected, I feel passionate about the cause.”

Visitors to Thrift for Charity on Sept. 12 can expect a lively, relaxed atmosphere while browsing clothing, home décor, vintage finds and other second-hand treasures — all at affordable prices and tax-free. 

An on-site café will offer goodies for purchase, along with a cozy space where visitors can play games, read a book or simply enjoy the community atmosphere.

Admission is free, but visitors are encouraged to make a donation to Nova Vita at the door or bring a non-perishable food item for St. Paul’s United Church’s food collection. Shoppers are also encouraged to bring a reusable bag to carry home their finds.