#89- Thrift Shop at Lucien Memorial United Methodist Church

Aside from it being a great place to find used items at low prices, the Thrift Shop (also called the Gallimaufry) at Lucien Memorial United Methodist Church is part of the rich history of Kings Park. Prior to the 1980s, the space the shop occupies was a Sunday school classroom, while the church itself has stood for over a century.

Found at the corner of Main Street and Old Dock Road, the shop sells second-hand clothes, decorative collectibles, toys and electronics. Anything purchased there goes to the general fund for the church.

Anne Kash, who is on the board of trustees for the church, explains what makes the shop special.

"It is our outreach to the community and selling items at reasonably inexpensive prices," she said. "Plus, we donate to other organizations to keep things on a good flow."

These organizations help farm workers, unwed mothers and others in need. The shop is currently staffed by nine volunteers, including Kash's mother Eunice, who oversees the shop and has been a member of the church since 1963. The shop is vital to the church, which relies on donations.

"We try to raise money by having small events," Kash said about finding additional funding. "[This includes] the pumpkin patch in the fall, the Harvest Bazaar this fall and cake sales."

Although the thrift shop's hours are limited, many local regulars come to explore the assortment of goods that change weekly.

"I'm surprised about some of the things that I've been able to buy in here that are really good," Kings Park resident and frequent customer Brendan Cussen said, referring to such items as sport jackets.

"Also I've met some nice people," he said.


Hours: Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Category: Indoors
Season: Year-round

Stop by next week, same time, same place to see #88. Missed #90?