Salvation Army Donation Centre Renfrew helping the community

Christina Moffat caught up with the team at Renfrew Salvation Army Donation Centre to learn about the amazing work happening at their shop

Walking into Renfrew’s Salvation Army Donation Centre feels like stepping into Aladdin’s cave. From furniture, clothing and bric-a-brac to electricals and more, the store is full of treasures, neatly arranged by volunteers who make sure everything is displayed with care. There’s a constant buzz as people drop off donations while others search for hidden gems.

The shop currently has around 74 volunteers from all walks of life. Each has their own story, but all speak warmly about how volunteering has enriched their lives. Together, they form a welcoming team united in supporting the local community and furthering the Salvation Army’s mission. 

• Neah Evans: Langbank’s world champion cyclist
• Anya Vincent: The Sound of Renfrewshire
• De Beers Paisley: Elise Hendry uncovers the pub’s success

Surveying the scene, manager Harry McCafferty praised his volunteers and the wider reach of the charity, declaring that “I wouldn’t have worked in the sector for so long if he hadn’t seen the greater good the Salvation Army does, and the people it supports”.

Nationally, the Salvation Army tackles homelessness, poverty, addiction, modern slavery and social isolation, with funds from shops like Renfrew’s helping to power vital services.

The centre also hosts regular events. As part of their upcoming Sustainable Fashion Week, customers can pick up a full outfit for £10 or shop the popular kilo sale, where clothes are just £1 a kilo.

In October, they launched their biggest Christmas Event offering brand-new toys and gifts. Their mission is simple: to support the local community so that no child goes without at Christmas.

Looking ahead, the store will also relaunch an eBay store to showcase donated gems and continue their much-loved Sally’s Salvage giveaways, ensuring nothing goes to waste. 

The centre is always open to new volunteers, so if you feel inspired, why not head down and meet the team? Practical support is also a big part of their work, while a small team of drivers deliver furniture to customers, ensuring accessibility for those who may struggle with larger items.

The Salvation Army Donation Centre, Unit 13B, Renfrew Trade Park, Renfrew, PA4 9EN, 0141 286 0888, website

Our charity features are kindly sponsored by Correctair Solutions Scotland Ltd. Experts in cleanroom validation and critical path ventilation based in Renfrewshire and servicing the UK.