What began as a bold idea and a huge step of faith has grown into one of Wisconsin’s most beloved thrift stores.
This August, Bargains Galore Thrift Store will celebrate its 25th anniversary. To thank the community for its incredible support over the past 25 years, Bargains Galore will celebrate its anniversary July 30-August 1 with special promotions, giveaways, and other surprises for shoppers.
The story of Bargains Galore began in January 2001 when the Central Wisconsin Christian School Board appointed a committee to explore opening a thrift store that could provide an additional source of funding for the school while helping keep tuition affordable for families.
After months of research, prayer, and perseverance, the committee found the perfect opportunity: an old lumberyard in Waupun. Thanks to generous supporters who stepped forward in faith to purchase the property, volunteers who transformed the building, and community members who donated thousands of items, Bargains Galore officially opened its doors on August 2, 2001.
The school’s goal was ambitious—they hoped the store would generate $40,000 during its first year. Instead, Bargains Galore recorded more than $150,000 in sales during its first year alone. Since then, the store has experienced remarkable growth year after year.
“Our mission has always been simple,” said Store Manager Becky Lange. “Through the generosity of our donors, shoppers, and volunteers, we have the privilege of supporting Christian education while serving our neighbors. It’s amazing to look back over 25 years and see how God has blessed this ministry beyond anything we imagined.”
Beyond its support of Central Wisconsin Christian School, Bargains Galore has become an important partner in serving the greater Waupun community. The store works alongside the Waupun Area Food Pantry to provide clothing, furniture, and household items to families experiencing financial hardship. It also assists individuals and families recovering from fires and other unexpected tragedies by providing merchandise at no cost.
Much of that impact would not be possible without the dedicated volunteers who keep the store running.
“When Bargain’s Galore first opened, the average life of a thrift store supporting a non-profit was five years,” explained Grace Bruins, Advancement Director at CWC. “The reason was the burnout of volunteer support. Our founding committee knew that and trusted God would provide. Twenty-five years later, God continues to provide faithful volunteers to keep our doors open. We couldn’t do this without their help.”
Over the years, Bargains Galore has grown into a destination for thrift shoppers from across the state. Its more than 20,000 square feet of shopping space, constantly changing inventory, and friendly atmosphere have earned it recognition as one of the top thrift stores in Wisconsin.
“It’s the people who have made Bargains Galore what it is,” Lange said. “We’re incredibly grateful for the community that has supported us for the past 25 years, and we’re excited to celebrate this milestone together.”
Community members are invited to stop by Bargains Galore during anniversary week to enjoy special promotions, giveaways, and celebrate 25 years of God’s faithfulness, generosity, and community partnership.
For anniversary celebration details and store hours, visit www.bargainsgalorethriftstore.com or follow Bargains Galore Thrift Store on Facebook.
About Bargains Galore Thrift Store
Bargains Galore Thrift Store is a nonprofit thrift store in Waupun, Wisconsin, dedicated to raising funds for Central Wisconsin Christian School through the sale of donated goods. Since opening in 2001, the store has contributed more than $5.1 million to Christian education while serving thousands of shoppers and supporting local families in need throughout the Waupun area.
Date posted: July 27, 2026