University of Montana Opens Thrift Store – The Loop @ Lommasson – to Cut Student Costs During Dorm Move-In

The University of Montana launches a thrift store to cut student expenses during dorm move-in.

The Office of Sustainability at the University of Montana opened The Loop @ Lommasson on campus to provide affordable, used dorm necessities for students starting move-in next Monday. This initiative aims to structurally reduce waste and lessen off-campus shopping by keeping items circulating within the campus community.

The store operates Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday during move-in week, offering small electronics, storage items, lamps, fans, mini fridges, microwaves, and clothes exclusively to students with a current Griz Card. Originating from the Office’s annual spring thrift sale, the store partners with campus housing to collect student donations for resale. Derek Kanwischer, program manager, emphasized the goal “to close the loop” by providing accessible, affordable items while promoting sustainability on campus. After move-in week, The Loop will remain open to the wider campus community, with hours and policies adjusted according to demand.

As Montana’s university communities often face limited retail options in college towns, initiatives like The Loop @ Lommasson could help reduce students’ living costs and environmental footprints. The convenience of on-campus access may also influence spending patterns and foster a culture of reuse in a state known for valuing resourcefulness and self-reliance.

New University of Montana thrift store opening for student move-in
By Caroline Weiss, KPAX News