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MUSTARD SEED

Mustard Seed to re-open thrift store; adjoining coffee shop to open later this year

Jan 22, 2020 | 9:52 AM

KAMLOOPS — Just after the Mustard Seed announced its revamped men’s recovery program, the non-profit organization is laying out more improvement plans.

In a news release, the Mustard Seed says it’s now accepting gently used clothing, decor, jewelry, small household items, and more in preparation for the spring 2020 reopening of the store — located at 346 Seymour Street.

The vision is to have an upscale thrift store with an adjoining coffee shop, which is scheduled to open later this year.

Diana Corriveau has been hired as the new coordinator to make the vision a reality, bringing with her “extensive experience” in retail.

“The Mustard Seed Thrift Store will be a huge asset to our community,” says Corriveau in the release. “My goal is to get donors’ treasures into loving homes, while generating revenue to provide much needed funds for our Mustard Seed patrons. Having moved from Eastern Canada (six) months ago, I am inspired by the generous, kind-hearted, loving community members that live here. I am looking forward to meeting and serving customers from this amazing city.”

The store will support many programs including a new employment program, which uses employment coaches dedicated to helping people find jobs.

According to the release, the coaches help clients update their resumes, practice interview skills, and provide support.

There will also be volunteer and employment opportunities made available to patrons of the re-launched Men’s Sober Libing Facility.

“Residents can volunteer 9-12 hours per week for the first few months,” says Mario Borba, managing director of The Mustard Seed Kamloops. “After volunteering for a few months there will be opportunities for them to be employed and all proceeds from the social enterprise will either pay for salaries or to be reinvested in the Mustard Seed programs.”

Effective today (Jan. 22), the public can drop off their gently used items at two locations:

346 Seymour Street: Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

181 Victoria Street: Tuesday to Saturday between 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.