By Krista Leman
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — The economy is changing and people are struggling to keep up.  With prices getting high, people are leaning toward thrift stores and finding ways to save money.

Making ends meet has become a challenge for most. With utility, grocery and gas prices constantly rising, daily routines have been adjusted.

Business has been busier than usual at The Salvation Army, said Jackie Ebright, 59, who has worked there for more than nine years.

“There have been more donations and more people making trips to our thrift store,” Ebright said. “Because of the gas prices we’re not going as far out of town for donations.”

In disagreement, Salvation Army volunteer Janice Walker said business had dropped, and because of higher prices people aren’t making trips into town to shop as often.

“Some can’t make ends meet and can’t trust social services,” Walker said. “There are people who can’t make payments and are struggling.”

Even though the organization is 50 percent busier than last year, donations are not running out, said Arlen Schmidt, 57, and a volunteer at St. Vincent de Paul.

“It’s rewarding knowing that when you go home at night you have touched someone’s life,” Schmidt said.
Pamela Coathup, a customer who donates when she’s able, has been greatly affected by economical changes. Mentioning how sad and frustrating every day can be, she said life was becoming more of a fight.

“We personally make use of all the places that give help,” Coathup said holding up a yellow bathing suit for her little girl.

With minimal affordable housing, single parent Michelle Lottman says she’s swamped. She said rising prices on gas and groceries were making it harder to live and to raise her son Jake, 15.

“I’m just trying to make it through each day the best I can,” Lottman, 48, said while sitting on the curb outside of the store.

Betty Wallace got started with St. Vincent de Paul through her church after her mother passed away. As a child, she was told to treat people as if they were her neighbors and to help them.

As vice president of the store council, Wallace tries to help the best she can. Packing food into a grocery cart, she explained the organization was made to give people a chance. Giving clothing, food, house items and more was making a difference to those in need.

Those who get free benefits are thoroughly checked out before they receive anything, Wallace said.

With an increase in business and a continuous supply of donations, she said she feels fortunate and confident when helping her customers.

“Just because we’re in a bad economy doesn’t mean we can’t try to make it work,” Wallace said, sliding a can of Gerber baby food into a cart.