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Doors set to reopen at Salvation Army offices

It’s been three months since a fire damaged their offices at 5-682 Gibsons Way and with cleanup complete, the Salvation Army Sunshine Coast Ministries will be returning to business as usual on Monday.
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It’s been three months since a fire damaged their offices at 5-682 Gibsons Way and with cleanup complete, the Salvation Army Sunshine Coast Ministries will be returning to business as usual on Monday.

“It’s just nice to be back in our space again, where we’re comfortable [and] more importantly where it’s comfortable for the people we assist,” said director Darrell Pilgrim, who said “a small dip in our numbers” was observed while they were relocated. “We’re happy to be back…where people are used to seeing us.”

Starting Jan. 27, the bread and produce line will run Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to noon. Lunch with Friends will run Tuesdays and Fridays at 11:30 a.m. and food bank distribution will take place Wednesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to noon.

What does remain uncertain is the status of a cold weather shelter that was planned for the space, through BC Housing’s annual program. The fire occurred at the site’s chapel, and the renovations required are extensive and could take months to complete, Pilgrim said. The shelter is currently set up on the bottom floor of the Arts Building at 464 South Fletcher Rd.

The timing of the fire was especially bad for the organization, which was forced to move its meal services and food bank distribution to the Christian Life Assembly (CLA) church facilities on School Road. The church also hosted the Salvation Army’s annual Christmas supper. But those unexpected connections led to “a great partnership,” Pilgrim said. “We want to thank CLA for their hospitality.”

Pilgrim also thanked First Response DKI “and the huge amount of prayers and support from the community.”

And despite logistical challenges the fire created for the Christmas campaign, it ended up being “a great success,” Pilgrim said. More than $135,000 was raised, exceeding their goal by $15,000, and 20 per cent higher than last year. About 20 per cent of the total was raised in the three days before Christmas.

“We’re very happy,” Pilgrim said.

In 2019, the Sunshine Coast Salvation Army: Served 5,000 hot meals to community members. Had 8,000 visits to its bread and produce line. Provided 1,062 food hampers to adults and families. Provided more than $4,000 in vouchers for clothing and household items from its Gibsons and Sechelt thrift stores. Distributed Christmas Hampers to 25 families. Gave 22 young people a week at summer camp. Served more than 400 individuals.

Those who wish to make monetary or food donations can bring those to the offices on Gibsons Way.