Skip to content

Summerland thrift store now closed

Concerns about COVID-19 prompt decision to close doors and refuse donations
20990962_web1_191121-SUM-Thrift-store_1
On most Tuesdays, the Summerland Health Care Auxiliary Thrift Store has long lines before the doors open at 1 p.m. However, since March 17, the store has been closed in response to concerns about COVID-19. (Summerland Review file photo)

Because of concerns surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, the Summerland Health Care Auxiliary Thrift Store has closed its doors.

The decision took effect on March 17.

The thrift store, on Victoria Road North, raises between $450,000 and $500,000 a year, most of which is contributed to health-related causes in Summerland and the South Okanagan.

READ ALSO: Summerland thrift store has received odd donations and generous tips

READ ALSO: Thrifty shoppers in Summerland line up for bargains

Wess Campbell, president of the Summerland Health Care Auxilibary, said concerns for the safety of the staff prompted the decision.

“Most of our volunteers are well past retirement age,” he said. “They’re the ones most at risk.”

In addition, the store is often crowded when it is open and would exceed the limit of 50 people.

“It would be hard to control the number of people coming into the store,” Campbell said.

Staff and volunteers will still come in to check on the building. However, the donation bins have been locked and donations are not being accepted at this time.

To report a typo, email:
news@summerlandreview.com
.



news@summerlandreview.com

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.



John Arendt

About the Author: John Arendt

John Arendt has worked as a journalist for more than 30 years. He has a Bachelor of Applied Arts in Journalism degree from Ryerson Polytechnical Institute.
Read more