The Salvation Army Port Elgin Thrift Store is sounding the alarm over a noticeable drop in gently used clothing, household items, and furniture donations — and is asking the community to rally together to help fill the gap.
The Salvation Army Thrift Store is more than a place to find affordable treasures; it is a cornerstone of the local support network. Proceeds from purchases and donations support the work of The Salvation Army in Port Elgin and Saugeen Shores, which includes The Salvation Army Community Services programming in Port Elgin, providing vital assistance such as food, clothing, and emergency support to individuals and families in need.
“Our Thrift Store is a vital part of how we support the Port Elgin community,” says Major Jeff Howard, Corps Officer and Pastor, The Salvation Army. “Right now, the need for donations is greater than ever. Every bag of clothing, every piece of furniture, every small item makes a difference — not just in keeping the store running, but in helping us provide food, emergency assistance, and hope to local families. We’re asking our community to come alongside us in this time of need.”
This call for support comes on the heels of a significant honour for Alice Wannan, Manager of The Salvation Army’s Community Services Programs in Owen Sound and Port Elgin. At the Food Banks Canada conference held in Montreal this summer, Alice was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal — a prestigious recognition presented on behalf of Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada.
Alice received the award in the Community Service and Philanthropy category for her exceptional efforts to combat food insecurity and strengthen communities. The medal commemorates the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and honours individuals who have made significant contributions to their communities, Canada, or the world.
“This recognition isn’t just for me — it’s for the entire community,” says Wannan. “It’s a reminder that when we come together, we can make a real difference. Our Thrift Store is one of the ways we do that — but we can’t do it without ongoing community support.”
Donations of gently used items can be dropped off at The Salvation Army Port Elgin Thrift Store located at 588 Gustavus Street. The store accepts clean, good-quality clothing, shoes, household goods and furniture. Donations can be made Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. and 4:45 p.m.
For more information on donation guidelines or how your support helps local programs, please contact 519-389-4246 or visit https://salvationarmyowensound.ca/thrift-stores/thrift-stores-port-elgin/.
About The Salvation Army: The Salvation Army is an international faith-based organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and every day in over 400 communities across Canada and in 131 countries around the world. The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, providing shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction. When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.
