Celebrate Clutter-Free February at the New Richmond Centre Thrift Store

In November, The Salvation Army opened its fifteenth Thrift Store in the Greater Vancouver area, welcoming the community to a new location in the heart of Richmond. Conveniently located on No. 3 Road across from Richmond Centre Mall, the store offers affordable shopping while supporting vital local programs and services. 

With Clutter-Free February campaign underway, the community is invited to refresh their homes by donating gently used items such as clothes, housewares and more, all while helping people right in their community.  

Shoppers who step inside the Richmond Centre Salvation Army Thrift Store are welcomed into a bright, spacious and thoughtfully organized environment. The store is clean and easy to navigate, with clearly marked sections for clothing, accessories, books and more. Racks are arranged by size and category, making it simple to browse. The housewares section stands out for its careful organization, sorted by aisles of different colours. 

More than just aesthetics, the store’s intentional layout reflects a deeper purpose, to serve every person who walks through the doors with dignity and respect. Whether someone is treasure hunting, shopping sustainably, or stretching a tight budget, everyone is welcomed into a space that feels inclusive and supportive.  

Stella Chan, Store Manager of the Richmond Centre Thrift Store, has been serving with The Salvation Army for 35 years. Her passion for helping others is at the heart of the store’s culture. 

“We are here to serve our community with care and compassion. Every person is treated with dignity and respect, and we want everyone who walks through our doors to feel valued.”

“I feel honoured to lead this store because it gives me the opportunity to support those who need help and to serve others with purpose,” says Stella.

During Clutter-Free February, community members are encouraged to donate gently used clothing and household goods to declutter their homes and make a meaningful impact. Stella shares that “clothing, shoes, housewares, kitchenware and small appliances” are common items shoppers look for. Donations extend the life of quality items while directly supporting programs and services for individuals and families in Richmond. Those interested in participating can donate Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the store’s Donor Welcome Centre, located at the back of the building. Regular shopping hours are Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

“When more people donate to our shop, it helps everyone.” 

The Richmond Centre Salvation Army Thrift Store works closely with local ministry partners, including The Salvation Army’s Richmond Community Church, to ensure individuals and families receive the support they need. When someone requires additional assistance, staff can connect them with the local Salvation Army to access emergency vouchers for clothing and essential household items. In some circumstances, staff and ministry teams even accompany clients as they shop, offering guidance and care along the way. 

This collaboration ensures that support goes beyond affordability, providing practical help, compassion and dignity to those facing challenging times. 

At the Richmond Centre Salvation Army Thrift Store, every donation and purchase makes a difference. The store brings together sustainable giving, affordable shopping and meaningful community support. As Clutter-Free February continues, it offers a simple way to declutter with purpose. When you donate gently used items or shop second-hand, you turn everyday choices into meaningful change for your neighbours and the programs that keep your community strong.

To learn more about The Salvation Army Thrift Stores, visit thriftstore.ca