Maple Creek celebrates Thrift Store move
On Saturday, May 24th, the Maple Creek Salvation Army celebrated the opening of the new location of their Thrift Store. The Thrift Store ceased operations at its previous location at the end of March and was closed for a short time to facilitate the relocation, reopening in a new space on April 14th.
Approximately 14 outstanding community volunteers helped with cleanup, moving, and setting up the new space. The care and commitment of the team were evident through the comments from shoppers, both regular visitors and first-time customers. Some of the comments included that it is a “great space,” “very welcoming,” with an “amazing selection” and “friendly and helpful staff and volunteers.” Others commented on how much they “enjoy searching for and finding treasures” and the personalized service they’ve received.
“April Favel, the store supervisor, has been brilliant in setting up and laying out the new store,” says Captain Ian Scott from nearby Swift Current. “It’s very boutique in appearance. She is super pleased with both the location and the size of the new store. It’s much more manageable, friendly, clean, and inviting. There’s been great support and response from the community in the first 6 weeks.”
The opening of the new location was also the first opportunity for the community to meet the new corps officer, who will officially start in July. Cadet Bobbi Oyerinde was on hand to meet community members and church members and check out the Maple Creek community before her official arrival.
Though it was a cool, cloudy day, the community came out to show their support. Around 150 people joined staff and volunteers for a free community BBQ from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Guests were encouraged to bring a donation for the food bank, and many brought lawn chairs and socialized with their neighbours. The high school rodeo was also in town that weekend, and there were many extra visitors who wandered over from the arena to check out the new store.
