Port Alberni

We were in Parksville visiting our usual shops when we made a decision to visit the shops in Port Alberni just to see what's there.  I am glad to say it isn't dismal, as the town used to have well-paid employment in the past but the town is looking a bit forlorn like many other de-industrialised towns.

Heading into the north part of town in the old Alberni on Johnston between Adelaide an Elizabeth, there is The Attic thrift shop of the West Coast Hospital auxiliary.  It seems to be a small store set in am old strip mall, narrow but it is deep with a room in the back so almost medium sized..  Friendly volunteers have organised it well.  Very good prices.  Free lot parking.

Down in Port Alberni, up on the hill around 3rd and Argyle are a host of thrift shops.

Cornerstone Thrift

Just a few shops north of the junction is Bread of Life's Cornerstone thrift shop.  Medium size, it is a bit rambling.  Good prices. Very friendly staff and apparently the main cashier sings a lot.  Free street parking.

Port Alberni Salvation Army

South just over a block is the Salvation Army that has moved (from Argyle) into what must have been an old shop.  It is a little too big (big size of medium) for its size (needs more stuff?)  Some furniture sold here. Free street parking.  Good prices, better than your average SA in B.C.

.

Port Alberni SPCA

On Argyle just east of 3rd is the Port Alberni SPCA store which is smaller than most of the other SPCA ones.  It is fairly well-organised and stocked.  We didn't see anything of interest so can't comment on the prices.  Free street parking.