Salvation Army thrift store suddenly closes

Wrangell's Salvation Army (SA) announced Monday the closure of its store on McKennon Street.

Citing issues with the space's lease, Major Scott Nicloy explained the store will close down after nine years of operation.

“We are choosing to view this as an opportunity to find new ways to meet our mission in Wrangell,” he explained in a release. The local SA will continue to offer its food pantry, music program, and emergency financial assistance and homeless prevention activities.

“Though we regret the need for such a sudden announcement, we expect and hope this will generate some vibrant discussion in Wrangell about services we provide, including ways in which we might better serve the community,” the release said.

The store's last day was March 7 when a special “Donate What You Can” sale was held.

“We are thankful for many expressions of support that local residents expressed this past Saturday during our final day of operation,” Nicloy's note said.

Several local groups and agencies have been contacted about taking items they would like for sales and other operations. Wrangell's SA also has the option to send its items to Seattle where they would be distributed through other outlets.

Along with the closure of the local Seventh Day Adventists' Bear Basics store before the new year, the thrift store's closure will limit access to second-hand and low-cost goods and clothing items on the island. The American Legion's seasonal rummage sales and occasional yard sale will, for the time being, be the only sources for such items in Wrangell.