The Salvation Army has opened a new Family Store in Darien, about two weeks after it had to close its previous location in the city.
The 13,716 square foot store at 8325 Lemont Road previously was occupied by a CVS Pharmacy and is about 35% smaller than the former outlet in the Chestnut Court Shopping Center at nearby 7511 Lemont Road. The Salvation Army store had occupied that storefront for about 10 years, but the organization was informed last spring that it needed to be out Oct. 31.
The new store opened Nov. 15 and was designed to improve the shopping experience for its customers, Salvation Army representatives said. It will be filled with bargain-priced clothing, household items, electronics, books, toys, furniture and collectibles.
“Given that it’s smaller than our previous store, we’ll focus more on quality over quantity, “ said Troy Barker of The Salvation Army. “This new location will offer a greater selection and more bargains that appeal to everyone in Darien. We are pleased to be able to provide a better shopping experience that will ultimately support the work we do in the community.”
Barker said Darien has been a great location for The Salvation Army store, and he doesn’t expect that to change with the opening of the new store.
“The people here have been very giving, and we had a great turnout for our first few days, even better than expected,” he said. “I think it’s a great location for us, and while we are located in Darien, I think we will draw from other nearby areas.”
The new store will make it possible for The Salvation Army to provide better assistance for people in the community who are struggling with alcohol, drugs, and other life issues, Barker said. Revenue from Salvation Army Family Stores supports The Salvation Army’s Adult Rehabilitation Center locations, said Barker, who is The Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Centers administrator for business.
He said the new store is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday-Saturday, and donated items are accepted at the store.
Chuck Fieldman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
