October 01, 2019
The Salvation Army Thrift Store sends sincere condolences to the family and friends impacted by the tragic deaths of community members in clothing bins in Toronto and West Vancouver.
The Salvation Army Thrift Store places the highest importance on the well-being and convenience of our generous communities who give to make a difference to children, families and adults in need. In an effort to educate and raise awareness around the improper use of donation bins, The Salvation Army Thrift Store, among other efforts, will be placing caution labels on existing bins as an advisory to the public.
“Donations are at the heart of what we do and we make every single item, no matter how big or small, count in our mission to support local communities,” says Ted Troughton, Managing Director of The Salvation Army Thrift Store. “We hope that these labels, and the discussions taking place in the public sphere and with our partners, help raise awareness around the proper use of donation bins.”
The Salvation Army Thrift Store has not had any tragic incidents occur with any donation bins they operate, states Troughton.
“Donation bins, while offering a convenient means to donate, are not our primary source of collecting donations. For over 100 years in Canada we’ve operated our Thrift Stores to support our shared communities,” he said. “Today we have over 100 locations with dedicated in store Donor Welcome Centres that are open seven days a week, which we encourage our communities to visit for a great donating experience,” he says.
When people shop and donate to The Salvation Army Thrift Store, the funds raised support local Salvation Army shelters, food programs and life skill training. Last year alone over $6 million of items were given for those in need to shop free of cost at The Salvation Army Thrift Store through its voucher program.
For individuals who are in need of support, please contact1-800-SAL-ARMY (1-800-725-2769) to learn more about Salvation Army services in your area.