The Salvation Army said it is temporarily unable to accept donations of clothing, furniture and household item donations at its Thrift Store locations throughout Ontario.
As the COVID-19 situation continues to rapidly evolve, the safety of donors, employees, and the community at large remains the top priority for The Salvation Army, said a press release from the organization.
As such, The Salvation Army has temporarily closed its Thrift Stores along with all clothing and furniture donation centres across the country.
“To ensure the health and safety of our employees and community, effective immediately, we are temporarily unable to accept clothing, furniture and household item donations from our generous donors,” said Captain Deb VanderHeyden, in the press release.
“We ask you to please set your donations aside and bring them to your local Salvation Army Thrift Store once we have safely reopened.
“The need for affordable clothing and household items will be very high in the days, weeks, and months ahead as we all work to rebuild from the effects of the pandemic. When we reopen our Thrift Stores, your donations will be needed more than ever to support those in need within our communities.”
The Salvation Army said it is still in need of donations of food, water and protective supplies such as gloves, masks, soap/hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes at its many Social Service Units.
The organization will continue to support those in crisis through its Community and Family Services operations throughout this temporary Thrift Store closure.
Any in need of assistance can contact 1-800-SAL-ARMY or www.salvationarmy.ca for services in their area.
“Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with those who have been affected by this pandemic,” said VanderHeyden.
“Please know that when the COVID-19 crisis is behind us, we will be here for you. We will continue to represent The Salvation Army’s values of giving hope, service and dignity to all in need now and in the future.”
