Opportunities to Improve our Resources

Indeed, 2020 was a roller coaster for the Browse 'N Buy. As a result of the pandemic, sales and net income for community outreach decreased.

While we cannot compare apples to apples with previous years, 2020 was still fiscally successful. The store was closed for two months and 10 days at the beginning of the pandemic. Rotating and quarantining donations when we reopened was challenging, but we found our rhythm and continued to move forward. Our overall benefit to the community was more pronounced than in the past, as many in the community were financially affected. The Browse did not change our pricing structure, so those that became financially insecure were still able to get the necessities they needed at an affordable price. The voucher program with our partner nonprofits, ensured those in need were able to shop for necessities without cost.

I am proud to say that throughout the time we were closed, St. John’s ensured that the staff was compensated, per their average work week. Thank you, Robyn, for the incredible leg work it took to make this happen. This was a tremendous relief for the staff to receive income during the shutdown. The Browse staff felt that St. John’s truly cares for and supports everyone who works on campus.

As we look towards 2021, I am confident we will continue to seize opportunities to improve our resources within the four walls of the store, and will embrace the new business model, responding to changes throughout the year. Our two-fold mission remains the same – to regularly stock a wide selection of affordable necessities and a selection of reasonably-priced luxury goods, AND to raise funds to support community outreach programs