Stores offer items for free during disaster
At The Salvation Army stores in greater Minnesota and North Dakota you can find great deals on clothing, furniture, household goods and much more. Even better — when you buy bargains from us, you’re also directly funding our critical programs and services. But the stores also serve our communities in an important way during times of disaster.
“The vouchers to our thrift store really help during a time of crisis,” explained Malissa LePage, Salvation Army Duluth emergency social worker. If disaster strikes, vouchers are given to families to help replace items they may have lost.
In 2015, a fire ripped through the Applewood Knoll apartments in Duluth, damaging 19 units and displacing 21 adults and 23 children. Immediately after the fire, The Salvation Army opened its Duluth store to those who lost nearly everything so they could shop for free.
Thanks to our voucher program, families were able to get new clothing, household goods and furniture — all at no cost to them. The vouchers also help people who go from homelessness to a new home, and in situations where they’ve had their stuff stolen.
“Typically the vouchers must be used within three days of being handed out, but for incidents like a fire, the time is extended,” explained LaPage. “Also, it’s only during extreme circumstances that we can give vouchers for free items.” Vouchers that are handed out for other reasons generally offer a reduced price on items at the stores.
Our stores are always in need of volunteers and quality, gently-used items. If you would like to volunteer or donate please contact the store nearest you.