Thrifting has soared in popularity for multiple reasons, and Sevier County has a variety of stores to visit. Some are for-profit and others benefit nonprofit organizations in the Smoky Mountains. Either way, shoppers looking for a deal will find it at the many thrift stores in Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg!
We are virtually visiting the local nonprofit thrift stores in Sevierville; come shopping with us!
Thrift Stores in Sevierville
Sevier County Food Ministries Thrift Store
890 Old Knoxville Highway, Sevierville, TN 37862
Volunteers operate the thrift store at Sevier County Food Ministries and the team accepts donations of gently used clothing, household items, toys, and other items. The nonprofit group sells these items to raise money for its mission, and it uses 100% of the sales to purchase food for county residents.
Sevier County Food Ministries began in 1992 and feeds over 1,000 families per week. The hours of this thrift store in Sevierville are limited but it’s worth the visit! Check its website for current hours and then shop to support this vital organization.
Smoky Mountain Area Rescue Ministries (SMARM) Thrift Store
229 Forks of the River Parkway, Sevierville, TN 37862
Photos courtesy of SMARM
SMARM lifts area residents during times of need. The Christian organization helps with emergency housing and rental assistance. It also helps support families and individuals to obtain food, clothing, and utility services. The SMARM Thrift Store collects donations of furniture, kitchenware, housewares, children’s items, and much more. Then the group sells the items to raise money for its mission. One hundred percent of the proceeds from this thrift store in Sevierville stay in the county to help those in need.
SMARM Thrift Store has a stunning mural on the building’s exterior. Stop by for a fun photo opportunity and then head a few blocks away to see the other photo-worthy murals in Sevierville.
Knox Area Rescue Ministries (KARM) Thrift Store
1916 Winfield Dunn Parkway, Sevierville, TN 37876
KARM is a regional nonprofit organization that helps individuals struggling with homelessness, poverty, and addiction. According to the KARM website, the Christian organization provided almost 300,000 meals, over 120,000 nights of shelter, and helped men, women, and children with nearly 4,500 healthcare services in just one year.
The ministry raises funds by reselling donations at its many thrift stores in East Tennessee. In total, the group currently operates 27 thrift stores in Knoxville and surrounding counties. These stores are generally large and well-stocked with a wide variety of treasures. Expect to find antique and vintage items, name-brand apparel, books, toys, jewelry, housewares, and almost anything else. One hundred percent of the proceeds stay in the organization.
LeConte Volunteer Thrift Shop
739 Dolly Parton Parkway, Suite G, Sevierville, TN 27862
Like the other thrift stores in Sevierville, LeConte Volunteer Thrift Shop accepts donations and sells those items to help those in need. The local hospital, LeConte Medical Center, operates the store. The first-rate hospital serves Sevier County residents and visitors with medical services that would otherwise only be available in Knoxville or surrounding areas. This includes the emergency room, which serves residents and tourists. It’s a huge asset to our community and the local tourism industry.
The store is smaller than others but is packed with housewares, clothing, vinyl records, seasonal items, and much more. Money raised at this thrift store in Sevierville assists patients in need with bills, equipment, and other medical needs.
Why is Thrifting so Popular?
As prices rise on everyday goods, shoppers are turning to thrift stores to score a bargain. Also, recycling and upcycling items are good for the environment. Consumers are becoming more conscious of wasteful living.
Plus, those who shop this way know thrifting is addictive. The thrill of the hunt sends shoppers into a frenzy. Luckily, we have many thrift stores in Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and the Smoky Mountain area. You could spend an entire day hopping from one store to the next!
Donate and Shop at the Nonprofit Thrift Stores in Sevierville
Donating and shopping at these thrift stores in Sevierville are two ways we can support the nonprofit organizations in Sevier County. We all win when we can clear out our unused items at work and home, find new treasures, and support our community.
Interested in helping our local nonprofits meet the needs of our community? Read this to learn more. Getting involved is an affordable way to grow your business, so get started today by reaching out to your favorite group!
Authored in Appalachia || Amy Morton