After weeks of being closed due to COVID-19, the Salvation Army thrift store reopened for shopping on Tuesday (May 19).
The store, located at 34081 Gladys Ave., is open Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m, but a date for donation drop-offs is yet to be announced.
Rod Studiuman, community ministries director, said the opening is in full compliance with the guidelines and requirements set forth by the federal government and the B.C. Health Authority.
He said the store will resume operations with several safety measures in place.
“We are excited to get back to business. At the same time, we want to ensure we are doing our part to keep our staff and the community safe,” Studiman said. “So things may look a bit different in terms of the service delivery, but the same open and hospitable experience will be made available to all.”
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Precautionary measures being taken include: enhanced daily cleaning procedures, increased sanitization of commonly touched surfaces, installation of hand sanitizer stations, and protective equipment for staff.
Studiman said there is a high need for affordable clothing household items as a result of the pandemic.
“During these scary and unpredictable times, we’ve remained committed to helping individuals and families in our community and we hope people will return to our store so we can continue that work,” he said.
Funds from the thrift store operations support local programs and services, such as:
• an emergency food bank and community meal programs
• slter for people experiencing homelessness
• a medical clinic and supplies and equipment
• rehabilitation for those struggling with addiction
• hampers for local students and families
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