REWAR Thrift: A Hidden Gem for Thrift Lovers & the Legacy of Love Behind It 🐾

I was in Oakland the other day to go to the pet store, and while walking through the Copper Tree plaza, I spotted a thrift store tucked quietly into the corner, across from the Motor Vehicle department. I had never seen it before and honestly, I probably would have missed it if I hadn’t wandered that way. I went in on a whim and I’m so glad I did.

Inside was the kind of thrift store I love most, the one that instantly pulls you in with friendly people, a mix of treasures, and prices that make you feel like you hit the jackpot.

A Mission Worth Supporting

The REWAR Thrift Store, located at 350 Ramapo Valley Road in Oakland, in the plaza, is part of Robert E. Williams Animal Rescue Inc., an all-volunteer, foster-based nonprofit. The rescue saves abandoned, homeless, and adoptable dogs and cats from high-kill shelters, and every purchase in the store directly helps fund that work.

Each animal that comes through REWAR is spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped before being placed for adoption. It’s a small but mighty organization, built completely on volunteer energy and a whole lot of heart.

Even though it’s technically in Oakland, it has deep ties to our Ringwood community, with local volunteers and supporters helping to keep things running.

What I Found (and Loved)

The store is packed with treasures. Designer purses and shoes (I even spotted a pair of Stuart Weitzmans), beautiful home goods and glassware, and an entire section of high-quality cookware (which included an ice cream machine that I really wanted, but left behind!) I walked out with a cashmere sweater with lace for six dollars, a new jacket for my pup that still had it’s tags, unused, and a pretty necklace for just two bucks.

There’s also an entire section of items for pets including food bowls, little outfits, pee pads, carriers, you name it!

There is a ton of beautiful jewelry, holiday decor, knick knacks, paintings, baby items and clothes, toys, cultural finds, and more.

The best part, though, was the people. The volunteers were warm and conversational, the kind who genuinely enjoy speaking with you and hearing about what you’re looking for. They even offered to keep an eye out for certain items and text me if they come in. You can’t beat that kind of kindness. Pam and Dawn -giving you a shot out, I loved chatting with you!

The Story Behind the Name

The rescue was founded in honor of Robert E. Williams, a man remembered for his heart, integrity, and lifelong devotion to helping others. His wife, Susan Calandriello, now leads the organization and continues his mission with the same love and determination that defined his life.

Robert’s life was rooted in service. He was a proud Air Force veteran who went on to serve New Jersey as both a police officer and a probation officer. For eight years, he led as union president, always standing up for his colleagues. He was also a devoted caretaker for his parents and a dependable source of wisdom and support for friends and family.

But his greatest passion was animals, especially the forgotten and the unwanted. In 2016, Robert founded Ruff Start Animal Rescue of NJ, which reflected his dream to create a safe haven for neglected dogs. He wanted to build not just a rescue, but a sanctuary, a peaceful place where senior and sick dogs could live out their days knowing they were loved and mattered deeply.

After Robert’s passing, Susan renamed the organization Robert E. Williams Animal Rescue Inc., ensuring that his legacy lives on.

“Robert may no longer walk beside us, but his spirit lives in every rescue we make. Though Robert ran out of time, his dream lives on through me… through us.”
— Susan Calandriello, President

Why It Matters

It’s easy to love thrifting, the thrill of the find, the good deals, the sustainability of it all, but it’s even better when the money you spend helps change lives. At the REWAR Thrift Store, every purchase helps a dog or cat find safety, care, and love.

It’s also a reminder that doing good doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes it’s as simple as shopping local, chatting with volunteers, and walking out with something you love that happens to do good in the world.

So if you’re anywhere near Oakland (or honestly, even if you’re not), go check it out. Browse the racks, talk to the volunteers, and know that you’re helping keep a really special dream alive. I’m already planning my next visit, and I’m sure I won’t be leaving empty-handed.

See the Doggies and Puppers that Need Homes or Fosters

Check out these cutie patooties here!

These are just SOME of the angels needing a fur-ever home!

Visit the REWAR Thrift Store

📍 350 Ramapo Valley Road, Oakland, NJ 07436
🕐 Tuesday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
💻 rewar.org
📱https://www.instagram.com/rewar_animal_rescue/

Editor’s Note: Have a local hidden gem, shop, or story you think we should feature on Ringwood 360? Fill out our form here. We love hearing from our neighbors.