The Salvation Army Thrift Store in downtown Simcoe will close permanently at the end of May.
The decision was made due to financial reasons, said a spokesperson for the organization.
“The Thrift Store has been losing money since we reopened from COVID-19, so the decision was made to shut down the store,” said Stephen Frank, corps officer with the Simcoe Salvation Army.
Frank said there are discussions about the Robinson Street building being put up for sale but details remain uncertain.
The store will continue to operate until May 31 unless supplies deplete prior to that date, which will result in an earlier closure.
The store currently employs six staff members.
Frank said he is unable to comment on the staff’s future endeavors without first consulting them.
Questions were raised about the store’s future after a social media post last month indicated it was closing. That post was quickly removed, but, at that time, Frank said the store’s future was under review due to fewer customers since it reopened last July. The store was temporarily closed due to the pandemic in March 2020.
“As responsible stewards of donor dollars, the Salvation Army will be redirecting its sources into existing areas of service to support and enhance, while developing and expanding programs to meet the changing needs of residents of Simcoe and area. We are always evaluating how to best serve the community through a network of established supportive agencies, programs, and services as we ensure we are being responsible stewards of donor and customer dollars,” the Salvation Army said in a social media post announcing the impending closure .
Support for emergency food and clothing vouchers are available through the Salvation Army’s Community and Family Services located at 184 Colborne Street North in Simcoe.