THUNDER BAY – The Salvation Army’s Thrift Stores could use an influx of winter clothing.
With colder temperatures on the way, and snow set to fall in the not-to-distant futures, the organization is putting out a call the public to help them stock more weather friendly items and help pick up the pace as donations decline.
Danielle Haney, who runs the Memorial Avenue location, said proceeds from the sale of the second-hand clothing helps the Salvation Army continue what it’s doing in the community, helping those in need live better lives.
“We are looking for donations and what we need the most is clothing – men’s, women’s and children’s clothing,” Haney said. “It’s coming into the fall and winter season, so maybe some of those winter coats and winter boots and that kind of items.
“And then always, we would like household items also.”
Connie Batlett is a regular contributor and said she likes the work the Salvation Army does to make Thunder Bay a better place.
“They do good for the people, they put it back to the people,” said Bartlett, after she and her husband dropped off some excess, gently-used clothing earlier this week.
A week earlier she donated a desk.
It’s a bit disheartening to hear that donations are down.
“I think people can step it up a bit and they should be looking at this place, rather than (stores) that are in it for the business,” Bartlett said. “There are so many around now that it’s getting to be too many. People don’t have enough to go around. I just stick with this one.”
Brandon Belisle, a supervisor at the Thrift Store, said it’s not desperate situation, but it’s moving in that direction.
“We’re always in need of donations and anything helps, whether it’s small or big,” Belisle said.
To donate, the public can drop clothing off in-store during business hours or in the bins outside the entrances at both locations. Belisle said larger items, such as furniture, can also be dropped off at the back of his store, at the bay doors.
“We also have a pick-up service, which picks up on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the Thunder Bay area. It is 1-800-757-4483,” he said.
