FRANKLIN, Pa. (EYT) – The Salvation Army Family Thrift Store at 534 Allegheny Boulevard has announced it will be closing its doors for good this month.

According to the organization, the first priority of the store was to raise funds to continue offering rehabilitation programs to people in need at no-cost; however, current circumstances have made supporting the programs through the Franklin store impossible.

In a news release, Captain Herb Rader, who oversees The Salvation Army Family Thrift Store in Franklin, said, “The decision to close the store was not made lightly but after much review, it seems to be the most responsible choice.”

The approximate close date is September 29, according to the release.

The Salvation Army regularly reviews the financial performance of its stores, services, and programs to ensure maximum efficiency. Available offerings are discontinued only when absolutely necessary.

Despite the closure of the Allegheny Boulevard store, The Salvation Army is stressing that assistance for financial hardship, and a variety of other life issues, will continue to be available through their service office located at 737 Elk Street and other stores, including locations in Meadville and Grove City.

The store also worked in concert with The Salvation Army’s social services office, providing clothing, furniture and bargain goods to families in need through a cooperative voucher system. Now that the store is closing, The Salvation Army’s office at 737 Elk Street will work to fill the void.

The news release also noted that every effort is being made to refer current employees of the store to open positions at other Salvation Army centers.

“The Thrift Store did provide great value to many families in need,” says Captain Laura Duesenberry, who oversees The Salvation Army’s social services office at 737 Elk Street in Franklin and at 217 Sycamore Street in Oil City.

“Although the store is leaving, The Salvation Army isn’t going anywhere. We’re still absolutely committed to meeting needs by serving this community.”