Pocono News Section

Salvation Army Thrift Store Re-opens

Salvation Army Thrift Store Re-opens - Friday, September 11, 2009 at 4:59PM EST

Reported by: Jeremy Deebel
Friday, Sep 11, 2009 @ 04:59pm EDT
Sunbury, Northumberland County-

A pillar of the Northumberland County community is back on its feet following a devastating fire.

The Salvation Army Thrift Store is back in business at 343 Market Street in Sunbury- formerly the “Something Special Flower Shop.”

The store’s loyal customers couldn’t be happier.

Jane Ramer, of Northumberland, said, “When my kids were little, there wasn’t a place like this to shop so it’s nice that we can get things for our little ones and it’s much more reasonable.”

Fire destroyed the old thrift store building back in April. Salvation Army officials estimate they lost about $14,000 per month while the store was shut down.

People we spoke with say they missed the place.

Joyce Newton, of Lewisburg, noted, “The community needs this store here. People can’t afford to go to the malls and buy clothes in this economy anymore.”

Joseph Bamidle hunts for bargains here. Then he sends items to family and friends back in Africa.

Bamidle explained, “Many people are laid off from jobs. They don’t have money, no income coming in. But at the Salvation Army, somebody can walk in with two dollars and take home maybe like 4 or 5 clothes.”

And while the store has reopened, many of the shelves are still empty. Employees say donations of new and gently used clothes are always welcomed.

Salvation Army officials say they are just relieved to be able to serve the community again. They expect to make their new location at 343 Market Street their permanent home.

The Salvation Army Thrift Store is open from 9-3:30 Monday through Friday. A grand opening will be held sometime next week.