Maria's Treasures

Maria's Treasures is a Thrift Store in Norwich, CT. Operated as a non‑profit, the shop is sustained by a community of volunteers and donors who provide quality used goods at affordable prices. Shoppers can find furniture, household items, clothing for women, men and children, collectibles, books, videos, records and toys. All proceeds are directed to meet urgent needs of local individuals and families, with 100 % of profits supporting organizations such as Befriend‑A‑Family Care, the East Lyme Coast Guard Foundation, the Eliza Huntington Memorial Home, 4‑H Camp, the Furniture Bank of SECT, IRIS, the Jesse Lewis Choose Love Movement, the Lighthouse Voc‑Ed Center, Oak Tree Crew, Otis Public Library, Rose City Learning Center, Rose City Senior Center, St. Vincent De Paul Meal Center, Taftville Fire Department and Madonna Place. The store is open Wednesdays and Fridays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., accepts spring clothing and décor donations during those hours, and can hold purchases for ten days after payment. The location holds a 4.80 rating from customers.

The organization grew from the vision of Carol Croteau, who retired from the human‑services field in 2007 and began meeting women in the Greater Norwich area. Those weekly gatherings evolved into a supportive network that led to the incorporation of Friends of Maria in 2009. With that foundation, the non‑profit secured a dedicated space at 509 Norwich Ave, creating a hub where volunteers manage the thrift store and community members can both shop and donate items, reinforcing the mission to address urgent local needs.

By keeping all profits within the community, Maria's Treasures blends thrift shopping with direct assistance to families throughout Norwich and the surrounding region.