Salvation Army to close Polson thrift store

A thrift store in Polson that is operated by the Salvation Army’s Kalispell corps will close Sept. 26 because the store is losing money.

Located at 201 Second St. E. in Polson, the store has been owned and operated by the Kalispell arm of the Salvation Army for almost three years.

Although local support of the store has been great, it has not been a profitable venture and the decision was made to close it, according to Salvation Army Maj. Steve Svenson.  

The Salvation Army has a long tradition of operating successful thrift stores, including its large thrift operation in Kalispell. Each store, including the Polson location, is operated to raise income for the social services provided in the area.

“Making the decision to close this store was a difficult one,” Svenson said. “The people of Polson and surrounding area have been very supportive, and the employees have worked very hard at making it an enjoyable place to shop. Unfortunately it just wasn’t large enough to make a profit. Our main mission is to provide services for the poor and our finances need to be used to that goal.”

The Salvation Army has been leasing the building. Future plans for the building have not been determined.

The store will remain open until Sept. 26, pending available merchandise. Shopping and donation hours are Monday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. but are subject to change.

The Salvation Army store in Kalispell is not affected by the Polson closure, and is open normal business hours. The Salvation Army truck will continue to pick up large donations around Flathead Lake by appointment and can be reached at (406) 257-5449.