Friday, July 26, 2019 ~ SOOKE
by Chelsea Kirkpatrick ~ West Shore Voice News
The Sooke Family Resource Society (SFRS) Community Thrift Shop is a non-profit organization in Sooke that engages in the community by giving back to community in ways like recycling, donating and reusing items they’re given.
They opened their doors at 6715 West Coast Road in Sooke in October 2015, excited to help the community and bring them together all while being able to support SFRS in the process.
All proceeds from sales at the shop go back into the community. They sell a wide range of affordably-priced household items — from baby clothing to board games and everything in between!
Volunteers are always needed, but they’ve never had much of an issue as the community seems to be very involved either with stuff to donate or free time to volunteer.
Millennials are one of their biggest customer demographics along with retirees that shop there. Most days are steadily busy throughout the year.
Parking out front of the building on the busy West Coast Road (Highway 14) can be a struggle, but SFRS Community Thrift Shop appreciates how their customers are flexible on this point.
Half-price days are usually on the 15th and 3rd (depending on the pension cheques) of every month, so there’s always a day to come in and afford what you need.
Another little thrift shop project is working with the local EMCS high school to provide clothes the students can select for their grad fashion show. This joint community effort started in 2018 and typically students will come back after the show to purchase the clothes.
Volunteers from the local RBC branch will be coming out on August 17 for Customer Appreciation day and a Book Sale, with cake and goodies for all those who attend.
On Thursday September 26 (weather permitting) there will be a BBQ lunch to acknowledge customers, staff and volunteers.
SFRS thrift shop operator Bev Lewis has a background in property and financial management. Every day the sales at the not-for-profit shop are robust under her watch.