Salvation Army to close Johnson St. thrift store
The Salvation Army says it’s shuttering its downtown Victoria thrift store after four decades, citing increased operating costs.
The permanent closure of the store at 525 Johnson St., set for March 23, will not affect other programs run out of the building, including its 150-bed Addictions and Rehabilitation Centre, the organization said.
“Following a thorough assessment of the current financial landscape and operational costs, it has become evident that sustaining our presence at this location would no longer be financially viable,” said spokeswoman Clara Pina.
Salvation Army thrift stores at 990 Hillside Ave., 3934 Quadra St. and 1551 Cedar Hill X Rd. will continue to operate, the charity said.
Proceeds from its thrift stores fund the Salvation Army’s food banks, school programs, shelters for people experiencing homelessness and rehabilitation for those struggling with addictions, it said.
“It is important to emphasize that the Salvation Army remains committed to helping individuals and families in need in the Greater Victoria community,” Pina said.
She said the Addictions and Rehabilitation Centre will look at the space previously occupied by the thrift store, exploring opportunities to expand its services.
The residential facility provides transitional housing and rehabilitative services and other supports to people in a variety of circumstances, including those graduating from residential treatment facilities.
The multi-purpose facility gives residents a safe, drugand alcohol-free environment from which to work on re-integrating back into the community, the Salvation Army said.