Donations of gently used clothing and household items are at the heart of our organization. We rely on the generosity of Canadians to fulfill our mission of making a positive impact in the communities in which we operate. Asking our donors to keep donations at home during the COVID-19 pandemic was an unprecedented request that we made for the safety of our staff and communities, and to ensure that your donations could do the most good.
Now that our Donor Welcome Centres have safely reopened, we are once again asking for your support. Demand for affordable clothing and household items will be higher than ever in the days, weeks, and months ahead as we all work to rebuild from the financial impact of the COVID-19 crisis. By bringing what you no longer need to your local Salvation Army Thrift Store, you are helping to care for people in your community when they need help the most.
After the COVID-19 pandemic virtually shut down the economy in mid-March, millions of Canadians are finding themselves in need of help. The effects of the pandemic caused nearly two million people to lose their jobs in April, while many more workers have experienced reduced hours and pay. With nearly 40 per cent of Canadians under the age of 55 only able to cover critical expenses like food or rent for one week in the event of job loss, this will continue to have significant impacts on the ability of individuals and families to make ends meet.
Every day, and especially in times of hardship, your donations make a difference by:
• Allowing us to provide a place for our shared communities to shop for affordable clothing and household items.
• Empowering individuals and families living in poverty to shop for essential needs free of charge using vouchers given by The Salvation Army’s social services. Over $4.2 million dollars in goods were provided through the voucher program in Canada last fiscal year.
• Helping generate funds to support local Salvation Army programs such as food banks and shelters for people experiencing homelessness – services that will be in higher demand than ever as our communities struggle to regain their footing after the pandemic.
You can make a difference to a neighbor in need in your community just by donating what you no longer need. For reopening details in your area, please visit www.thriftstore.ca/locations.
We can rebuild stronger than ever after COVID-19. We’re all in this together.
We continue to support crisis needs in our communities. If you are in need of assistance, please contact 1-800-SAL-ARMY or www.salvationarmy.ca for services in your area.
