BENEFITS OF THRIFT STORES FOR FAMILY HEALTH UNITS: AN EXPERIENCE REPORT

Abstract

Objective: To report the initiative of the Nova União Family Health Unit in organizing a thrift store, so as to use it as an alternative to foster health education actions in the Family Health Strategy. Experience Report: The idea for the thrift store arose from the need to create a fund that could subsidize the educational practices developed by groups operating in the service. Initially, the workers themselves made donations of objects in diverse conditions of use and these were transferred to the population at affordable prices, so that the amount collected would be directed to events sponsored by the women’s and elderly’s groups. A space at the unit where the items donated were displayed was arranged, and commissions that would be responsible for the thrift store were assigned. Comments: The results have surpassed initial expectations, since we have had the support and involvement of professionals and users, with frequent donations and approval of the initiative, thus allowing the promotion of various other events with the community. Therefore, we recommend this experience to other health services. DESCRIPTORS: Family Health. Health Education. Consumer Participation.