Free Yard Sale Helps a Community in Need

Yard sales are common, but a free yard sale? Each Fall, The Salvation Army in Fredericton hosts a family-fun Rally Day. It’s a time of welcoming church families and friends back from the summer break. Typically, members contribute and support it, but this year they added a new feature – a free yard sale.

“We are all about bringing people together”

“We decided to add a free yard sale for our food bank members to coincide with Rally Day. Our food bank members are a vital part of our church family,” says Major Renee Dearing. “The idea came from our desire to want to do more for our food bank clientele by providing another way for our church members to partner directly with us to help those we serve.”

The event was all about rekindling old friendships and making new ones.  “We are all about bringing people together,” says Susan, community ministries coordinator. “Bagged lunches were prepared instead of our typical BBQ and children’s events.  This year, we gave out over 1200 items to 64 families, representing 189 people.”

“This event gives hope and support”

 The selections of donated items were plentiful. From jewelry, fans, pots and pans, to pictures, candles and candle holders, and all sorts of other items to encourage them and brighten their day,” Susan adds. “Because of COVID-19, additional safety precautions were taken; people came in one door and exited out another. Hand sanitizer was available upon entering and face masks were required.”

“This event gives hope and support by offering additional practical assistance to those who struggle in their time of greatest need,” explains Susan. “Those we serve come from all walks of life, including families with children, single parent households, immigrant families who are new to Fredericton, individuals on social assistance, and Canadians living on a fixed income, including seniors and people with disabilities. It truly was a blessing for us and for all who came to support the event.”

Learn more about Salvation Army programs and services in the Maritimes.

By: Jan Keats