BREAKING NEWS: Staffing challenges lead to closing of Salvation Army Thrift Store in Owatonna

The Salvation Army has announced the immediate closure of its Owatonna Family Store, driven primarily due to challenges sourcing and retaining adequate staffing.

"The current job market has made it difficult for us to remain adequately staffed at the Owatonna thrift store, so we’ve made the determination to close the store at this time," said Joanne Johnson Lee, division service extension director.

"We are immensely grateful for the ongoing support from the community over the years," Johnson Lee added. "Our thrift store has been a key element of our outreach efforts in Steele County, but we believe this closure is necessary to better utilize our entrusted resources for the greater good of the local community."

Johnson Lee also made it clear that the thrift store had served a separate function from the overall emergency services that the organization offers in Steele County. “Though the thrift store is closing, the Salvation Army service unit in Steele County will continue to provide emergency financial services and programs to residents, just as it always has,” Johnson Lee said.

Residents seeking assistance or needing more information are encouraged to call 507-455-1444.

The Salvation Army expressed gratitude for its thrift store team for their unwavering dedication and hard work in serving the Owatonna community. Their commitment had been integral in providing essential services and fostering a sense of belonging for countless individuals and families.