Salvation Army's new store set to open Oct. 11

  Anticipation and determination are among Jonathan Harvey's feelings as the Salvation Army’s new Family Store nears completion after just two months of remodeling.

  Harvey, Salvation Army captain for Yuma County, said, "Within weeks, construction will be complete and we will begin moving into the former Rite Aid drugstore, 600 Catalina Drive

   "DHG Construction is doing an outstanding job and is on target to complete the remodel on time at the end of September. New ceiling grids are now hung, lighting is installed and painting is almost finished in a building that was completely gutted just a few weeks ago.

  "We're anticipating to be in transition of moving to the new site, which has 25,000 square feet, from our Arizona Avenue location that has only 16,000 square feet, (at) the end of this month," Harvey said.

  Proceeds from sales of donated items at the store will fund Salvation Army programs for the area's needy.

  "The new store will be a significant step forward for The Salvation Army in Yuma County," Harvey said. "We need to have improved facilities to better care for the underprivileged in our community. It will be like no other Salvation Army in the western United States and will set a new standard of excellence.

  "It will not only help to secure a stronger financial foundation for us, but provide the community with a comfortable and inexpensive place to shop for new and used items. The new location will also include a state-of-the-art Family Assistance Center where clients will be able to receive help with food, utilities, clothing, transportation and emergency housing.

  "We're planning - and are determined - to have a grand opening on Oct. 11."

  Harvey explained all administrative offices will be in the family store.

 "Our Foothills offices will remain at the same location, as will our soup kitchen and the Boys and Girls Club. We are selling the Arizona Avenue building, proceeds from which will help pay for the new store, along with grants and trust money."

  He said volunteers will be welcome to help the move and for continuing projects.

  The public can continue to drop off donations of new and used goods at the Salvation Army current location at 1701 S. Arizona Ave. until the new location is ready. For free local pickup, call 783-0181.

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Pam Smith can be reached at psmith@yumasun.com or 539-6856.