SYLACAUGA, Ala. – King Home Thrift celebrated its grand opening on Friday morning, Aug. 14 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Fort Williams Square Shopping Center, opening its doors with a promise of lower prices and a mission that “Every Purchase Restores Hope” through King’s Home’s support of abused youth, women, and children.
Managed by former University of Alabama football player Del Fulgham, King Home Thrift offers clothing, household goods, home décor, furniture, toys, tools, and more at affordable prices.
“A large variety, because that’s the nature of a thrift store,” Fulgham said. “With our pricing and merchandise, there’s going to be a lot of turnover and a lot of unique new items added every week.”
Fulgham has been with King’s Home for eight years and said teamwork remains central to the organization’s mission.
“Teamwork is a key ingredient in what we do, something I learned through football,” Fulgham said. “The focus is on helping kids and helping them understand that love really does exist in God’s world. Many of them haven’t experienced much of that in their lives, and that’s where King’s Home comes into play. As a customer, you’re part of the team that’s making a difference for them.”
The Sylacauga store is the third thrift location supporting King’s Home ministries in Alabama. The organization also operates stores in Homewood and Pinson. Its outreach includes large residential campuses for boys, girls, and women, as well as 16 residential homes.
“We started with the King’s Ranch,” said John Sweeney. “That has only grown as the need has grown. Our mission is to first serve Christ, and we do that by serving abused and homeless youth, women, and children, providing hope through shelter, safety, and resources.”
As attendees gathered for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, King’s Home President Lew Burdette highlighted one of the organization’s traditions.
“We start our days with prayer,” Burdette said before inviting First Baptist Church Pastor Rick Patrick to offer the dedication prayer.
Just before the ribbon was cut, Burdette referenced a Bible verse that serves as a source of encouragement for many of the women and children served by King’s Home: Jeremiah 29:11.
The verse reads: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
