Ric’s Food Center to host Salvation Army collection truck

Tax-deductible donation makes real differences in lives of real people

This Saturday, April 16, Rockford area residents will have the opportunity to help others and put a little tax deduction into their finances. A manned Salvation Army truck will be at Ric’s Food Center, 6767 Belding Road from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. According to Diane Tabor, who schedules truck pick-ups, spring is a good time for donating, as people clean out closets and do other spring cleaning activities. Donations are also tax deductible and go to a very good cause. Forms for tax deductions will be provided at the time of donation.

“The Salvation Army helps those whose lives have fallen apart due to various reasons such as addictions,” Tabor said.

Currently there are about 100 beneficiaries whose full-time job while tending to recovery is to sort donations. The sale of donations at Salvation Army’s area stores is responsible for funding this and the international humanitarian aid Salvation Army provides.

Dave Brickner, store manager at Ric’s, said the hosting of the truck is typical for the family-owned grocery. The store also donates to a food pantry on a daily basis, and has a Mel Trotter donation box on-site every day. Giving back to the community that supports the store is not only Brickner’s philosophy but also that of the family that owns the several Ric’s Food Centers in Michigan.

“We try to give back to the community whenever we can,” Brickner said.

Tabor said clothing that is in good condition—no stains or tears—appliances that work, household goods and furniture are all among the items that are typically donated and are available for sale. The truck at Ric’s will have people there to help unload items, and trucks make regular pick-ups in the Rockford area for those who don’t have the means to transport large items.

The Salvation Army has a guide online to estimate the value of donated items and the tax refunds available may be a surprise. A child’s snowsuit may be worth up to $19, a bed may be valued at $170, and a complete dining room set may be worth up to $900. See donation values at www.satruck.com/donation-value-guide.

To find out more or to schedule a pick-up at your home or business, call the Salvation Army Truck hotline at 1-888-868-9305. Callers may also ask to be put on the Salvation Army newsletter, which monthly has a coupon for discounts at Salvation Army stores.