Samantha Rombouts (centre) with her aunty and uncle, who helped encourage her to start the social enterprise. Photos: Supplied.
Nestled in Crown Street, a new thrift store is quietly changing lives — offering not just affordable fashion, but dignity, confidence and a safe space for women doing it tough.
Thrift Avenue, founded by Samantha Rombouts, is part second-hand clothing boutique, part support hub, and entirely built on lived experience and compassion.
Drawing from her own challenging past, which included experiences with domestic violence and juvenile justice, Samantha designed Thrift Avenue as a safe haven for women facing hardship.
Opened earlier this month, the social enterprise offers affordable clothing, free hygiene packs, and an innovative “Get Ready” program that provides a free hair and makeup station for women to prepare for job interviews, special events, or everyday life to boost self-esteem and confidence.
In just two days of operation, Samantha had already supported 43 families, providing essential items to single mothers, women’s shelters, and youth centres.
“I had the idea of opening up a thrift shop, but to make it different we wanted to offer clothes as cheap as we could,” she said.
“We also have a Get Ready station where people can come in, if they’re having a bad day or a job interview, and use the makeup, use the nail polish, and pick an outfit for free.
“We have free hygiene packs there for any women in need, even if they’re working.
“We don’t judge. Everyone needs a little bit of help.”
Collaborating with organisations such as Women Illawarra and Dress for Success, Samantha said providing compassionate support was another core piece in what she was offering.
“We’re not just selling clothes,” she said.
“We’re passionate about supporting women in need and empowering them to rise above challenges.
“Our mission is simple yet powerful: to provide affordable clothing, free hygiene packs, and a safe space for women to connect and grow.”
Samantha said every individual deserved to feel seen, heard, and valued.
“People come in and they start talking and I think it’s nice someone listens,” she said.
“We have a book nook in the corner where they can sit down, read a book or if they want to chat, we’ll listen.
“With us, it’s basically just a walk-in safe haven. You don’t need to book an appointment for anything.”
With clothing primarily sourced through donations and always welcomed, Thrift Avenue aims to rehome clothes to keep them from landfill while empowering community members experiencing financial challenges.
“The better the clothes, the more people walk out feeling happy again,” Samantha said.
“If people ask for a discount, I give it to them because I know how it feels.
“I was in and out of juvenile justice from 14 to 18, I’ve been in foster care, not having a mum, and just going downhill. But I’ve changed now.”
Through the store, Samantha hopes to be an inspiration to others and help improve their lives.
Thrift Avenue is at 1/233 Crown Street, Wollongong, and is open Tuesday through Sunday.
