SUDBURY -- With retail stores temporarily closed to help slow the spread of the coronavirus, officials at the Salvation Army are asking donors to hold onto their clothing, furniture and household donations until stores re-open.
Kidney Clothes, an organization that collects used clothing and household goods for The Kidney Foundation of Canada, is sharing the same message.
Officials say there has been an increase in donations being dropped off at donation bins, with many items being left on the ground.
However, with operations currently suspended and donations at the bins not being collected, officials are asking people to hold onto those items for now.
"When we reopen our Thrift Stores, your donations will be needed more than ever to support those in need within our communities," said Captain Deb VanderHeyden from the Salvation Army via email.
"The need for affordable clothing and household items will be very high in the days, weeks and months ahead as we all work to rebuild from the effects of the pandemic."
Although textile collections have been suspended, The Salvation Army is still in need of food, water and protective supply donations.
Its Social Service Units are looking for items such as gloves, mask, soap, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes.
In Sudbury, the Salvation Army food bank remains open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.
The Salvation Army is also continuing to support people in need through their Community and Family Services.
More details can be found on their website or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY.
