Closure of Salvation Army Thrift Stores leaves rehab center without funding

FLINT, Mich. - The coronavirus has left millions across the country in crisis. That's why Mid-Michigan NOW and Sinclair Broadcasting are teaming up with the Salvation Army to help those struggling in the community with Sinclair Cares: Your Neighbor Needs You.

In Michigan, the governor's stay-at-home order has many non-profits struggling to raise money, including the Salvation Army

The Salvation Army Thrift stores fund the men's rehabilitation program. But all of them had to close suddenly because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

"Right now we're getting zero dollars of income everyday," said Major Elmer Gamble.

On a normal day, Major Gamble says their eight stores pull in $160,000-200,000.

That is the sole funding source for the rehab program that supports men who are struggling with drug or alcohol addiction.

Right now, 48 men are living inside the rehab center in Flint.

"We don't get any government funding," said Gamble. "The money that is raised in our thrift stores support this program 100 percent."

Gamble said, "we are still here providing for these guys, still feeding these men, still giving them classes and counseling."

Much like everyone else, their lives have changed drastically too.

"They're not allowed to leave," said Gamble.

If they do leave, Major Gamble says, they're not allowed back, because they want to limit the chances of spreading Covid-19.

Gamble says he is doing all he can but it is tough with no income for the program.

"We're surviving off what we have, and it's going to come to a point where we're going to need funding," said Gamble.

There are also 200 employees not getting paychecks because of their eight thrift stores being closed.

As of now, the stores are closed until further notice.

You can help out the Salvation Army of Genesee and Shiawassee counties here.

Your donations will be based on your zip code and go towards the local chapter of to help support the programs in our communities.

Sinclair Broadcast Group will match up to the first $100,000 donated.