Speaking of thrift stores. You can get some great bargains in the bedspread, blankets etc. If it's in good condition I bring it home and wash it again, then use it as batting for some of my quilts.
One of them I cut into 4 squares, put binding on them and the kids used them for drag-around quilts.
Also, I have done many little quilts for the SPCA. It's better to have a whole piece of material than a pieced one, because the animals scratch around to adjust it to their liking and of course they tear it up in the process. I make a yard square for the dogs and smaller ones for the cats. My daughter takes them to work with her.
You can contact your local SPCA to see if they need any. I'm sure they would appreciate it.
Syl