MILLICENT’S Salvation Army thrift shop opened its doors at a new location in Glen Street this morning.
After many years in George Street, it has moved about 80 metres to a larger premises.
The site was formerly occupied by In-Store and has been vacant since 2016.
Affectionately known as the Salvos, the evangelical Christian denomination has had a continuous presence in Millicent since the 1880s.
A roster of 14 volunteers ensures the thrift shop can be open four days per week.
In addition to the sale of affordable clothes, household and other items, it provides an invaluable outreach to the community.
Millicent and Mount Gambier corps officer Major Pam Marshall oversees the church across the Limestone Coast and said the new shop premises provided more flexibility.
“We have been here in Millicent for many years and we want to bring hope to people who are struggling,” Maj Marshall said.
“We want to give back to the community and that is our aim in 2019.
“Our community support worker visits Millicent each week to provide relief”.
Maj Marshall said the funds generated by the shop would be used for this purpose as well as to maintain a Salvation Army presence in Millicent.
The majority of the shop volunteers are not members of the Salvation Army but want to support its work.
Millicent resident Chris Manhood is one such volunteer who can be found in the shop at least one day per week.
“I have been coming here for about four years and I like helping out,” Ms Manhood said.
“We are always looking for more volunteers.”
Millicent’s other thrift shops are operated by the Seventh Day Adventist Church, Vinnies and Lifeline.
