The Salvation Army's Thrift Store in Prince Albert is located in the 900 block of Central Ave. (Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

End of the line

Prince Albert Thrift Store says goodbye to community

Aug 29, 2023 | 4:13 PM

After more than three decades of serving Prince Albert, the Salvation Army’s Thrift Store is closing.

According to a sign posted on the front door, the last day for business will be Sept. 29. Major Al Hoeft, Divisional Secretary for Public Relations, told paNOW the decision to close was difficult.

“We recognize that it’s been a very valuable service for the community, however economics being what they are, and the need to re-evaluate service to the community, we had to make the very difficult decision to close down the store,” he said.

(Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)

Hoeft assured the community the Salvation Army is not leaving town and will continue to provide feeding and holiday programs. He added the work of the congregation’s ministry will also be very visible.

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“Our plan to is close the store on Sept. 29, of course with the assumption that we have any product left by that time or enough product left to be worth opening for,” he said.

When further questioned about the exact reasons for closing the store, Hoeft explained even though it’s donated clothing, there are still overhead costs with respect to utilities and staffing. Hoeft also noted sales have been down the last couple years, so it’s just not economically viable to run the store any longer.

“But we will continue to find ways to serve the community,” he said.

Hoeft thanked the people who have donated regularly and shopped at the store.

A total of nine staff members will be impacted by the store’s closure.

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell