Tucked along East 11th Street is one of Houston’s best-kept secrets: the MAM Resale Store in The Heights.
Bright, colorful, clean and thoughtfully curated, shoppers can uncover one-of-a-kind treasures while supporting programs that help local families build stability, find jobs and achieve financial independence.
“We want the resale store to reflect the dignity and possibility MAM offers through its programs,” President and CEO Sonja Gee said. “Shopping here isn’t just about finding something beautiful; it’s about being part of something meaningful.”
A mission in every purchase
The Heights store is part of Memorial Assistance Ministries, a nonprofit serving Houston for over 40 years. MAM helps more than 18,000 individuals and families facing economic hardship build stable lives through programs like employment services, financial coaching, English classes, mental health support and immigration assistance.
The Heights resale store reflects this mission. Every donated item and purchase fund MAM’s programs while providing a welcoming space for the community to shop, volunteer and connect.
“When someone shops here, they’re helping a neighbor take steps toward a stronger, more stable life,” Gee said.
Where it started
Over four decades ago, volunteers organized a garage sale to raise money for neighbors in financial hardship. This effort grew into a cornerstone of MAM’s mission—a network of resale stores that generates funds and creates community connection opportunities.
When MAM sought to expand its outreach in the Heights and Near Northside areas, it partnered with The Houston Vineyard to open a new store and program hub.
Now celebrating its third anniversary, the Heights store has found its place in the neighborhood and become a space where purpose meets style.
What’s inside?
The Heights store offers a boutique shopping experience reflecting the area’s charm. Since the items are donated, you never know what treasures you might find, including:
- Women’s, men’s and children’s clothing and shoes
- Handbags and jewelry
- Home decor, books and gifts
- Pop culture items and locally inspired art
- A constantly changing selection of new-with-tags merchandise
The smaller size makes it easy to browse without being overwhelmed. The store boasts a rare feature for the area: its own parking lot.
Supporting families beyond the store
The proceeds from the Heights store fund MAM’s onsite programs, including:
- Employment services and job readiness training
- Financial coaching and education
- Support for small business owners
- Computer lab access for online learning and applications
Since opening, the location has served over 500 individuals, helping nearly 100 secure new jobs or promotions—with an average wage of $17.75 per hour.Ways to get involved
MAM thrives thanks to over 2,500 citywide volunteers who sort donations, teach classes and mentor families.
Opportunities include:
- Assisting with merchandising and customer service in the store
- Teaching English or financial literacy classes
- Collecting toys to support MAM’s Christmas share program
- Volunteering as a group through a local business or organization
Visit, shop and make an impact
The MAM Resale Store in The Heights offers a shopping experience that gives back, whether you’re hunting for a unique gift, refreshing your wardrobe, or looking to give back.
Stop by, shop purposefully and join something bigger.
- Location: 1015 E 11th St., Houston
- Hours: Open Monday-Wednesday and Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Learn about programs, volunteer opportunities or donations at www.mamhouston.org/heights.
The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel with Community Impact’s Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their “sponsored content” purchase through our advertising team.