Business Spotlight - Nanaimo Hospice Shoppe

If you love a good find (and an even better cause), the Nanaimo Hospice Shoppe is worth the browse.

With new donations arriving daily and fresh deals hitting the floor each week, it’s the kind of place where you never quite know what you’ll find, and that’s half the fun. From clothing and books to home goods and furniture, there’s a little bit of everything waiting to be discovered.

The best part? Every purchase gives back. 100% of proceeds support hospice care right here in Nanaimo.

As part of our Nanaimo Business Feature Series, we’re chatting with local businesses to hear their stories, what keeps them here, and how you can support them.

What inspired you to start your business in Nanaimo?

The First Hospice Shoppe opened 17 years ago. We are a Social Enterprise that helps to fund the free programs and services of Nanaimo Community Hospice, which has been supporting Nanaimo since 1979!  

Are there any positive specific customer stories or interactions that stand out to you that have taken place over the years?  

We have so many it’s hard to pick just one! Our customers love being able to find great deals on sustainable items, all while supporting our local community. Every dollar raised stays right in Nanaimo!

What’s one thing in your store that’s a great gift? 

That’s a hard one! Would have to say our Housewares Department, you can put together a personalized, awesome gift basket for under $10!

What are some of your favourite Nanaimo businesses?

Some of our favourites are Habitat for Humanity, KC’s Boutique & Junk in our Trunk!

What would you say to someone considering starting their own business in Nanaimo?

We would say do it, there is so much opportunity here. But do your research and know your target customer! Be creative, focus on customer service, and value the people who support you.

How do you see your business contributing to the community in Nanaimo?

We contribute by providing a place to donate good-condition used goods, to assist us in fundraising in our Shoppe! Nanaimo Community Hospice is an integral part of the community when it comes to loss, grief and bereavement support. The shoppe is a space where people can donate their adult clothing and household items, knowing it’s supporting a great cause and staying in Nanaimo.

What do you love most about being a part of the Nanaimo business community?

We love the community, we can’t pick just one thing! They show up for us in so many ways! Customers who donate goods, throw a few dollars in our Love Jar when checking out, and businesses that reach out to donate new goods to help us fundraise a few more dollars. The stories we get to hear from past and present clients on how they found the support they needed, knowing our hard work at the shoppe allows stories to continue for years to come.

At the Nanaimo Hospice Shoppe, every item has a story and every purchase helps support another.

Whether you’re dropping off a donation, hunting for your next great find, or simply stopping in to browse, you’re part of something bigger. A community that shows up, gives back, and supports one another when it matters most.

And honestly? That’s what Nanaimo does best.