(above) The ribbon-cutting at the grand opening. From left, Linda Radtke, program co-ordinator; Lt-Col Jamie Braund, DC, B.C. Div; Mjr Neil Wilkinson, AC, B.C. Div; Cpt Eric Olson; Lt-Col Ann Braund, divisional secretary for spiritual life development, B.C. Div; Cpt Rachael Olson; and CSM Debra Tandy

The Salvation Army in Trail, B.C., has transformed its community services to operate out of a newer and larger facility. Long-awaited renovations to the new building, which had previously been owned by Sears and was purchased by the Army more than 20 years ago, officially began in September 2021 and concluded with a grand opening in September 2023.

“The goal is to have all of our services, except for the church because that’s in a separate location, in one building,” explains Captain Rachael Olson, corps officer, who hopes that this will create a one-stop shop for their main social services rather than operating at three separate locations, each incurring costs and rent.

With flexible programming spaces, storage areas and an interview office for the food bank, the facility is well equipped to serve the community more effectively. The main floor houses the meal program and thrift store, along with a commercial kitchen. The upper level is home to administrative offices and a sorting space for the thrift store, and the food bank will operate out of the basement with a large food room, a walk-in fridge and freezer for added storage.

“We’ve seen an increase in usership,” explains Captain Eric Olson, corps officer. “In our community, we are the official food bank. We are seeing a lot more people who are struggling to pay their bills, put food on the table and make ends meet.”

The updated community services space is now more centrally located with a bus stop directly across the street, making it more easily accessible to people in the community as well as people from outer regions of the Trail Salvation Army’s coverage area. 

“When we worked out of the church, which is further from downtown, we would have some people drop in, but not many,” explains Captain Eric. “It is also much easier to have staff under one roof. The distances are shorter; you don’t have to travel between three locations.”

In September, the Trail Salvation Army celebrated their grand opening with a two-day event. It began with a preview on Friday night for supporters, community partners and city councillors to tour the facility. The following day, the community was invited inside for shopping, cake, snacks, a draw for gift baskets and a ribboncutting ceremony. 

“The place was packed, and we did $1,600 in sales in four hours,” says Captain Eric. “There was a lot of positive feedback and people were excited to get involved.”

Now with a new facility, The Salvation Army in Trail is seeking opportunities to partner with other community organizations to expand its impact and reach out to new people.

Photos: Jennifer Small