The Elk Valley Thrift Shop Society has passed a huge milestone, donating over $500,000 to local causes over the shop’s lifetime.
“In 2013, in January we made our first donation of $500. We were pretty proud of that,” said shop manager Katrin Taylor.
“Fast forward, this January we made a donation of $5,000 and that put our grand total to $502,000 in donations.”
The volunteer-run secondhand store donates money raised to local causes, groups and individuals in need with the help of community and local business support.
From humble beginnings, the store has grown through various expansions and additions, and now resides in its own building in downtown Sparwood. It also recently expanded into new space in the same building.
“It’s been quite a ride that’s for sure,” said Taylor.
“Nobody expected it to take off quite like this, but the community is great and many of the local businesses support us hugely.”
Taylor said that community support through donations of goods and purchases had remained enthusiastic through the shop’s seven years in operation.
“There’s a lot to what we do, we’re not just a thrift store. … Our money stays in the valley, and that’s what people really appreciate.”
Taylor thanked the many hard working volunteers at the shop and the patrons and businesses that supported their work - as the next goal was a million dollars in donations.
“You better believe it. It’s going to happen.”
To celebrate, the Elk Valley Thrift Shop will be having customer appreciation days on Feb. 26 and 27, with store-wide sales and draws on both days to win $50 gift cards.
READ MORE: EKC donates to Elkford Community Garden
scott.tibballs@thefreepress.ca
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