Shopping is one of the top things to do in the Smoky Mountains. Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg are known for the incredible shopping options at Tanger Five Oaks Outlet Mall and the hundreds of big-name retailers and local boutiques throughout the area. Thrifting and shopping for antique and vintage treasures is a niche market that has exploded over the last few decades. There are dozens of antique malls and thrift stores in Sevierville and the Smoky Mountains including the SMARM Thrift Store. This store is a thrifter’s paradise making a big difference in the local community. When you shop with SMARM, you’re making a difference too!
What is SMARM?
Smoky Mountain Area Rescue Ministries, or SMARM, is a non-profit ministry headquartered in Sevierville, TN, that serves the surrounding areas. Established in 2001, the organization provides emergency relief and other services for homeless and near-homeless men, women, and families in the Sevier County area. These services include but are not limited to assistance with utility payments, food, clothing, and rent for those facing homelessness.
This Christian ministry was created by concerned citizens who came together to address the problem of homelessness and poverty in Sevier County. The founding members sought to strengthen their beloved community with a Christ-centered, interdenominational ministry. SMARM’s goal is to renew the hope of the community’s hurting members and present an opportunity to come to faith or strengthen their faith in Christ. This is achieved through meeting the most basic needs for food, shelter, clothing, and other services.
How Can You Help?
Residents of Sevier County and surrounding areas can give back to the community by volunteering with SMARM. This organization is an asset to the community and it is always looking for heroes! Residents interested in volunteer opportunities can click here to learn more.
The Smoky Mountains welcome millions of visitors annually, and the tourism industry provides jobs and opportunities to our local community. Furthermore, the tax dollars generated by our visitors help grow and strengthen our hospitable community. However, out-of-town visitors can specifically help SMARM in three ways:
1. Shop at the SMARM Thrift Store in Sevierville
SMARM opened a new thrift store in the fall of 2021, and chances are that you pass by it as you arrive in the Smoky Mountains. Located at 229 Forks of the River Parkway in Sevierville, TN, this thrift store is on the main stretch of highway that connects Interstate 40’s Exit 407 to Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Find it between McDonald’s and La Carreta Mexican Restaurant.
You never know what you’ll find at the SMARM Thrift Store! If you collect vintage milk glass, carnival glass, or other glassware, you’ll find it there. Are you looking for a good deal on clothing, shoes, belts, and accessories? They have that too! This thrift store in Sevierville has everything from vintage jewelry to towering china cabinets and other furniture. Come see for yourself; the SMARM thrift store has something for everyone.
While there, snap a photo with the stunning mural outside the store! This photo opportunity is a fun way to kick off your Smoky Mountain vacation. Speaking of murals, downtown Sevierville is just around the corner. Plan to make a day of shopping and seeing the hometown of Dolly Parton!
Start at SMARM’s thrift store. After, walk the streets of downtown Sevierville admiring the historic town, the many murals, and the famous Dolly Parton statue! There are plenty of dining options, boutiques, and other things to do in Sevierville too. You will make memories and a difference in the Smoky Mountain community by shopping at the SMARM Thrift Store in Sevierville.
2. Donate Items to the SMARM Thrift Store
SMARM helps to fund its mission by selling donated items via the SMARM Thrift Store. These donated items come from members of the local community as well as those on vacation in the Smoky Mountains. Because of these donations, the thrift store can sell the items and use the funds to help thousands of Sevier County families and individuals during a moment of crisis.
Bring your gently used articles of clothing, accessories, home décor, books, baby items, furniture, appliances, dishes, housewares, and other items to the thrift store. Call 865-908-3153 with questions about donations.
3. Monetary Donations
Should you wish to donate directly to this organization, you can do so with a one-time monetary donation. There is also an option to sign up for recurring monetary donations. These funds go directly to helping local residents in need. Donations change lives! Learn more about monetary donations here.
More About the SMARM Thrift Store in Sevierville
All money raised by SMARM through monetary donations and the thrift store stay in the Smoky Mountain community. Learn more about this wonderful organization by visiting its website. Stay updated by following SMARM on Facebook.
SMARM continually demonstrates the Love of Christ by serving individuals and families in their moment of crisis, and they achieve this because of caring folks like YOU! Thank you for your interest in SMARM. We invite you to shop at the SMARM Thrift Store in Sevierville during your next Smoky Mountain vacation!
Authored in Appalachia || Amy Morton
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