Home Recycling Exchange Ministries

Temporarily closed — Home Recycling Exchange Ministries is not currently open. Check back soon or call ahead before visiting.

Home Recycling Exchange Ministries, affectionately known as HREM by locals, stands as a beacon of community support in east Des Moines, Iowa. This faith-based thrift store does more than just sell secondhand items – it creates a cycle of giving that strengthens our Des Moines community. Located in a modest building at 805 SE 14th Ct, HREM offers an unpretentious shopping experience focused on affordability and purpose. What makes this store truly special is their commitment to supporting local ministry efforts through the proceeds of their sales. Unlike commercial thrift chains, shopping here means your dollar goes directly toward helping neighbors in need throughout the Des Moines metro area.

Store Information

805 SE 14th Ct, Des Moines, IA 50317

Phone: +1 515-282-9296

Store Hours

Typical thrift store hours — please call ahead to confirm:

  • Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

What They Sell

Home Recycling Exchange Ministries offers a thoughtfully curated selection of pre-loved items that vary based on donations. Shoppers can typically discover furniture pieces perfect for apartments or starter homes, household goods ranging from kitchen essentials to decorative items, and gently used clothing for the whole family. While the inventory changes regularly, HREM consistently provides quality basics at accessible price points. The ministry often receives donations from church communities throughout Des Moines, meaning you might find unique faith-based items alongside everyday necessities.

The Neighborhood

Situated in the southeast quadrant of Des Moines, HREM enjoys a practical location that's easily accessible from both downtown and the eastern suburbs. The SE 14th Street corridor is a busy commercial area with plenty of essential services nearby. This working-class neighborhood has a genuine, unpretentious feel that matches the store's mission. Shoppers appreciate the convenient location just minutes from the Iowa State Fairgrounds and Grandview University, making it an easy stop while running other errands in east Des Moines.

Parking

Home Recycling Exchange Ministries offers convenient parking directly outside the store in a modest but adequate lot. The SE 14th Court location provides easier parking than many downtown Des Moines thrift options, with free, no-hassle spots right by the entrance. Even during busier donation days, turnover is quick enough that finding parking is rarely an issue, and there's generally additional street parking available along the surrounding blocks if needed.

Shopping Tips

  • Call ahead before visiting to verify the day's hours and ask about any recent large donation arrivals.
  • Bring cash for smoother transactions, as some ministry-based thrift stores have limited card processing.
  • Don't hesitate to inquire about upcoming sales – HREM sometimes offers special discounts for seniors or half-price days that aren't widely advertised.
  • If you're donating items, ask for a tax receipt as your contribution to this ministry is likely tax-deductible.
  • Build a relationship with the volunteers – regulars often get tipped off about incoming items that match their interests before they hit the sales floor.

Before You Go

While Home Recycling Exchange Ministries doesn't publish specific operating hours, calling ahead to +1 515-282-9296 is recommended to confirm when they're open for shopping or donations. Like many ministry-based thrift operations in Des Moines, they may operate with limited or volunteer-based staffing that affects their schedule. Local shoppers suggest mornings are often the best time to visit for the freshest selection, particularly after weekend donation drops. Consider calling early in the week to check both their hours and recent inventory arrivals.

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