The main job of the B.C. SPCA is to protect and enhance the quality of life for domestic, farm and wild animals in British Columbia.
Many people know the SPCA shelter as a place to adopt a dog or cat or relinquish a family pet. But, they are also broadening their reach by opening thrift stores, including the latest one, in the Admirals Walk Shopping Centre in View Royal.
Store manager Tony Burnell is an enthusiastic and pleasant man behind-the-counter.
He wants to ensure money is passed on to the BCSPCA, and in doing so does his best to make sure plenty of merchandise is available. The store opened six months ago and in the relatively small space carries everything from clothing and power tools, to furniture, antiques and other collectables.
“We’re trying to mix the old and the new,” said Burnell. “We have someone who sends up new stock from L.A. – bling, purses and such.”
Looking around the store, it is clean, slightly cramped and full of interesting and inexpensive items. Donations are gratefully accepted and often, as quickly as items are donated, they’re out the door, sold.
Burnell said all of the money, after overhead, is donated to the BCSPCA for its programs on Vancouver Island. The money helps support such programs as education, animal rescue and the Wild Animal Rehabilitation Centre in Metchosin.
The store is located in unit 107-1497 Admirals Rd.
editor@goldstreamgazette.com