Roblox Thrift Store Raises Real Money for Salvation Army

Gaming and giving back just found common ground in an unexpected way. Roblox launched a virtual Salvation Army thrift store where players shop for avatar outfits while supporting real-world charity work.

The digital store, playfully named "Thrift Score," lets players browse secondhand-style clothing in popular game environments like Seaboard City and Daycare Party. Every purchase sends proceeds directly to The Salvation Army's community programs.

"Thrifting has always been about more than price. It's about creativity, individuality and purpose," said Lt. Colonel Mark Nelson of The Salvation Army. The organization is introducing millions of young gamers to charitable giving through a platform they already love.

The timing couldn't be better. In 2024, The Salvation Army helped nearly 28 million Americans overcome poverty, addiction, and economic hardships through food assistance, disaster relief, rehabilitation services, and shelter programs across 7,400 centers nationwide.

Popular Roblox creators like Preston Arsement of @PrestonPlayz helped design the virtual clothing collection. "For me, everything starts with play," Arsement said. "Play is how we connect, how we create, and how we open the door to something bigger."

The partnership transforms casual gaming into purposeful action. Players customize their digital style while learning that small choices can create meaningful impact.

The Ripple Effect

This virtual thrift store does more than raise funds. It teaches a generation of digital natives that commerce and compassion aren't separate worlds. Young players discover the satisfaction of supporting real people while expressing themselves creatively.

The model could reshape how charitable organizations connect with younger supporters. By meeting people where they already spend time, nonprofits can build lifelong giving habits that extend far beyond the screen.

Gaming becomes a gateway to understanding community needs and taking action. Players see immediate results from their virtual purchases, creating a positive feedback loop between digital fun and real-world good.

When play meets purpose, everyone wins.