About the shop
Staffed by volunteers from St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, as well as community members from Madison CT and surrounding towns, Serendipity offers shoppers quality merchandise at low prices. The shop's proceeds support an impressive variety of local, national, and international charities.

There are many ways to take advantage of Serendipity's operations. As a community thrift store, shoppers will find a variety of women's, men's, and children's lightly-used clothing and accessories for sale at very attractive prices. In addition, quality household items including china, glass, linens, tableware, artwork, antiques, decorative, holiday, and collectibles are offered. A unique schedule of discounts is used to provide even more savings for most of the already low priced merchandise. After an item has been on the floor for two weeks the price is marked 20% off. After an additional two weeks, 40% off; another two weeks, 60% off. And, of course, distinctive furniture is always available for sale.

In addition to previously owned merchandise, the shop offers a range of hand-crafted items. Original artwork from local artists is always on display and available to purchase. The store currently has quilted batik handbags from local artists in Dakar, Senegal and Zulugrass jewelry from the Maasai women of Kenya. It now features a selection of handmade products from Uganda. In all cases, sales of these items go directly to aid the local African communities.

Also available for sale at Serendipity is the Queen Bead jewelry line. These stunning pieces are produced by a local artist and priced very reasonably.

 
 
Proceeds and merchandise from the Serendipity operation are used in many ways. Monetary profits from the organization support the mission and ministry of St. Andrew's and, through its outreach efforts, half are used to make direct cash contributions to a long list of charities. In addition, unsold items are forwarded to a number of organizations for charitable use. And, as mentioned, sales of African merchandise directly benefits the artists and their local economies.

Members of the community can help support the mission of Serendipity in addition to shopping at the store. Donate saleable items in good condition. Bring in items for consignment and share the proceeds. Tell a friend about the store, particularly if they are moving or downsizing. And, finally, consider volunteering at the store either behind the counter or behind the scenes. Contact us.

 
You are always greeted
by a friendly face when
shopping at Serendipity