The Thrift Store within the Canadian Mental Health Association of Northern BC complex, 1152 Third Ave., doesn’t just give a second chance to the donations sold there but also offers a second chance to clients who are part of the work force at the store.
“That little thrift store provides an opportunity for folks who would otherwise never have an opportunity to contribute to society,” said Elaine Laberge, Canadian Mental Health Association of Northern BC executive director.
That is part of the social enterprise for the local mental health association where the thrift store can sell goods to generate income and achieve social, cultural and environmental aims while meeting their mission of making a significant contribution to a healthy community.
“The thrift store offers opportunities for people with serious learning disabilities, people who have anxiety so bad the only time they come out of their house is to come here,” Laberge explained. “People learn how to talk to others, how to count money. These are the people who society has written off.”
The Second Chance Thrift Store is where people come to thrive, she added.
Right now the store is open Tuesday and Thursday from 1 to 4 p.m., with the hopes of extending those hours very soon.
Incoming donations are put through a rigorous process before they hit the store floor, which includes putting donations in the freezer for one week, washing and drying each item, then ironing them.
The store is not just there to make money to go towards programming. For those in need anything in the store will be gifted to them.
“When you’re unhoused, when you come out of prison – we’re not going to be charging you for what you need,” Laberge said.
The store is in need of donations for not only clothing for men and women but for basic household items for people who are just getting started on their housed journey. Most recently a woman was getting her home in order and was gifted some food, including canned goods. What stopped her in her tracks was that she didn’t have a can opener.
So any donations of small kitchen items, blankets, sheets and towels are most welcome.
“Everything except big appliances,” Laberge said. “Whatever you have in your home that you use day-do-day are things we need to provide to those in need.”
Within the neat-as-a-pin store there is a huge bookshelf filled to its capacity, so there’s no need to donate any more books, but if you're looking for your next Harlequin romance come have a browse and help fund the lives of those in need in the community.
Dropoffs can be done from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. at 1152 Third Ave. Please ring the doorbell or call 250-564-8644.
