New Community Life Centre and thrift store in Kelowna

On a sunny mid-March afternoon in Kelowna, BC over 300 people gathered to celebrate the transformation of a former bowling alley and pub into the Kelowna Salvation Army’s new Community Life Centre and Thrift Store at a grand opening and dedication ceremony.

Services offered at the new Community Life Centre include counselling, emergency food hampers, pro-bono legal advice, referrals and help with clothing and furniture to those in need. Plans are also in place to develop a mentoring program and other community support programs.

“This new facility gives us an opportunity to own rather than lease and will allow us to better serve the Rutland community with more emphasis on helping families already living in the neighbourhood,” said Cartmell.

In the Picture:

Graham and Evan Skeen hold the ribbon at the dedication ceremony of the new Kelowna Salvation Army Community Life Centre & Herb & Elsie’s kitchen on March 13, 2010.

Cutting the ribbon from left are: Kelowna CO Major Ron Cartmell, Divisional Commander Major Susan van Duinen, Gord Wilson from Team Construction, Debra Blackmore, Tony Duarte from Team construction & architect Jim Meiklejohn.