Spring cleaning helps save lives at The Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center
Spring cleaning is a necessity. It is an excuse to clean the house in anticipation of warmer weather, but also a time to reconsider what has value in your life … and what should be purged.
For many, this means doing a deep clean to wash away the ‘old you’ and move forward with what comes next — say- ing goodbye to toys that served your family well, clearing out clothes that don’t fit anymore or getting rid of furniture that doesn’t match your aesthetic.
But rather than throwing away the casualties of your spring cleaning, there’s a smarter, greener alternative: donating your gently-used treasures to your local Salvation Army Thrift Store.
Everyone knows the benefits of thrifting — lower prices, sustainable fashion, inspired creations — but what the community may not realize is how donating and shopping at Salvation Army Thrift Stores help individuals rebuild their lives through The Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center in Detroit.
In my work with The Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center, or the ARC, I’ve had the honor of witnessing the organization’s great work with those stabilizing from substance use disorder, transforming their lives by setting them on a path of light and hope.
Founded in 1883, the ARC provides a holistic faith-based approach to drug and alcohol rehabilitation for men and women. The program has offered adults with substance use disorder the opportunity to rebuild their lives through a free, 180day residential self-help program designed to establish a sense of dignity, self-esteem and personal strength allowing them to resist the desire to abuse a substance and regain their rightful place as contributing members of society.
All ARC programs are completely self-funded and draw its entire operating budget from the revenue of The Salvation Army’s metro Detroit thrift stores. With 30 locations spread across the southeast Michigan, each thrift store is an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others. Whether shoppers are looking for a one-of-a-kind piece or just want to save some money on their shopping trip, all proceeds from the stores benefit the Adult Rehabilitation Center, thus helping those in the stabilization process.
The Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center provides a beacon of light to those seeking rehabilitation by extending them a helping hand. But this cannot be done without community donations.
In addition to thrift shopping, community members can get involved by donating unwanted, gently-used clothing, accessories, housewares, furniture and more. All year round, the 30 thrift stores accept these items from generous families who understand that everything purchased in the thrift stores benefit those in the ARC program. All donations to The Salvation Army are tax deductible.
Disposing of gently-used items is a wasted opportunity that could have helped recovering individuals find hope, peace and fulfillment. From those looking to get rid of belongings they no longer need, to families seeking a bargain, we need your contributions. Your donations truly make a difference. Without your generosity, we could not help those in need.
This spring, keep us in mind when you’re cleaning out your attics, basements and garages. Remember, when you donate and shop at The Salvation Army, you are helping save lives.