Thrift shop moves to new home on base

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Lauren Johnson
  • 16 SOW Public Affairs
In an age where thrift shopping, garage sales and online auctions have be-come popular hobbies, it appears the old adage "One man's trash is another man's treasure" has been proven true.

Hurlburt Field has had its own treasure chest for more than 30 years. The thrift shop has been a base institution as part of the Soundside complex since the early 1960s. The shop closed its doors Oct. 22 and will open them again Nov. 13at its new location; Bldg. 90319, across from J.R. Rockers.

At its previous location, the thrift shop was open Monday - Wednesday and the first and third Saturday of each month from 9:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

"We're expecting some changes with the new location," said manager Kris Dahlin. She hopes the changes will include increased business.
"For a long time we've been a well-kept secret, but we don't want to be a secret anymore!" Ms. Dahlin said. "We want to become a popular lunchtime destination."

The thrift shop offers treasures for every taste.

"We have everything from housewares to baby supplies," Ms. Dahlin said. Other popular items include uniforms, books, DVDs and videos, golf equipment and tools.

"Sometimes we have some really unique items that can be vintage or antique," Ms. Dahlin said. "I have to resist buying all the cool stuff."
Donations are gladly accepted at the thrift shop. "It's great for someone who has some stuff to get rid of, but not enough for a garage sale," Ms. Dahlin said.

In addition to a place to get rid of excess items, the thrift shop can also be a money-making opportunity. Shoppers can arrange military consignments and receive a percentage of the proceeds when their items sell.

The thrift shop benefits both the Hurlburt Field and surrounding communities. One hundred percent of the proceeds go to the community. Half contribute to scholarships for Hurlburt Field military dependents and half goes to organizations throughout the community.

"We go through a definite 'PCS season' where we're up to our eyes in clothing and household goods," Ms. Dahlin said.
The items that don't sell are donated to the Air-man's Attic, now conveniently located next door, or sent to Honduras thro-ugh the Air Commando Association.

During the move, the thrift shop is in need of volunteers for last minute projects, set-up and un-packing. There has been an overwhelming response so far, Ms. Dahlin said, but there is still a lot of work to be done.
After the opening, volunteers are needed to work in the thrift shop. Anyone with a Department of Defense ID is eligible.