The Salvation Army will close its Family Thrift on Alder Street in May, the organization announced Monday.

Maj. Ronald Bernardi said the first priority of the store was to raise money to fund rehabilitation programs at no cost but supporting those programs through the store was impossible. The decision was made following a routine review of the financial performance of The Salvation Army’s stores, services and programs.

“The decision to close the store was not made lightly, but after much review, it seems to be the most responsible choice,” Bernardi said in a statement.

The Alder Street store, which sells clothing and household items, will close May 28.

Bernardi said assistance for financial hardship and other life issues will continue to be available through the service office at 297 Cumberland Ave. The Salvation Army’s other Portland thrift store, located on Warren Avenue, will remain open.

The Alder Street store worked with the social service office to provide clothing, furniture and other items to families through a voucher system. The Warren Avenue location will now handle that service.

The Salvation Army is working to transfer employees of the Alder Street store to open positions at the Warren Avenue store.

“Although this store is leaving, The Salvation Army isn’t going anywhere. We’re still absolutely committed to meeting needs by serving this community,” Maj. John Lock said in a prepared statement.


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