There is one store at Ohio State where students can go to get a bargain
The Buckeye Bargains Thrift Shop, at 2121 Tuttle Park Place in the basement of Converse Hall in the ROTC Building, has everything a college student might want, and all of its merchandise is extremely low-priced.
Helping students has always been the store’s first priority, said Arma Schmidt, treasurer of Buckeye Bargains.
“That’s exactly why this store was opened,” she said. “Students, especially international students, who have absolutely nothing, can come here and get everything they need for a reasonable price.”
Betty Murdick, a volunteer at the shop, agrees.
“It (Buckeye Bargains) is particularly nice for students trying to furnish an apartment, but don’t want to spend a lot of money doing so.” Murdick said.
The store, which originated in 1966, is a nonprofit organization run by the OSU Women’s Club. All proceeds from sales go towards scholarship funds as well as to emergency loans for students.
“Last year we raised $13,000 and gave out 21 scholarships,” Schmidt said.
Along with household items, Buckeye Bargains shoppers can also find shoes, coats and clothing of all styles and sizes. All of the items in the shop have been donated by organizations or individuals.
According to Schmidt, the Kirwan family donated goods to the thrift store before they departed for Maryland.
Campus Lost and Found is one organization that gives Buckeye Bargains much of its merchandise. According to its Web site, items that have not been claimed after 90 days, except for clothing, which are kept for only 30 days, are cleaned and donated to the thrift store.
“Some of the merchandise is brand new and has never been worn,” said Colleen Houser, a volunteer. A number of items donated have the original tag still attached.
Buckeye Bargains marks down items to less than $20. Miscellaneous items, including jewelry, tapes, posters and collectibles, are all priced under a color-coded system ranging from .25 to $1.
Then students can afford them, said Houser.
Mike Miller, a sophomore in business, plans to do some bargain shopping at the store.
“I’ve been hearing more and more about it (Buckeye Bargains),” he said. “I didn’t realize it was actually on campus. I need to go there and stock up on some mugs. You can never have too many glasses and, at 25 or 50 cents a piece, who cares if you do?”
In celebration of the upcoming holiday season, Buckeye Bargains has ornaments and other seasonal items perfect for gift giving. Also, the store is holding a raffle in which baskets of food and Buckeye paraphernalia will be given away. According to Bonnie Stevens, raffle coordinator, tickets are .50 a piece or three for $1. The drawing will be held Dec.11.
Buckeye Bargains is open from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Wednesdays when classes are in session.
