Milford couple makes a difference through God’s Way Thrift Store

It was 10 years ago when Roger and Carrie Wood decided to open a small Christian thrift store in a little-known spot in Milford.

Starting with only two bags of donated clothes, the couple put their faith into the ideal that hard work and steady progress might transform their operation into something much larger.

Graced with bountiful donations from the community, the Woods continued to see God’s Way Thrift Store grow over the next decade.

While their business has been a success, the Woods say one aspect of their store holds much more importance than taking in profits.

“The reason we opened our store was because we wanted to start an outreach program specifically for those dealing with addictions,” said Roger Wood. “That’s why part of the proceeds from God’s Way go directly to a transition home program we started years ago.”

Located in Milford, God’s Way Transition Home has assisted numerous members of the community who have struggled with addiction problems. Providing them food, shelter and employment opportunities, the program has proven to be effective helping people to get back on their feet, said Roger Wood.

In fact, it was the desire to reach out to more citizens in need that recently motivated Woods and his wife to start their newest endeavor, a second God’s Way Thrift Store located in Rehoboth Beach.

Nestled behind the AmericInn Lodge and Suites at 335 Airport Road, the new business had its grand opening in early July.

Filled with clothes, virtually every kind of knickknack and brand-new and used furniture, the large store offers quality items at some of the lowest prices available, said Wood.

All it takes is a keen eye, he added, and shoppers can take advantage of great deals such as bunk beds or woven baskets. Other products available at God’s Way include household items and decorations, children’s toys, a variety of plush sofas and much more.

“The donations have been coming in, and even though the store was relatively bare just a month ago, it is now full with everything you would want to find in a thrift store,” he said. “People have been happy to see that we are open. We have really been blessed with both customers and donations.”

With their continuing success, the Woods hope to add a new transition home in Sussex that will house 75 men and 75 women. The large facility will most likely be located in the Ellendale area, said Wood, and be completed in four to five years.

“We know that the need is out there, so we are glad that our new store can help us financially to get plans started on the new facility,” said Wood. “We have always been dedicated to reaching out to those who need our help, so we hope the store continues to do well.”

Wood said that although items have been pouring in, God’s Way still happily accepts donated products from the public. All items are tax-deductible, he added, and pickup and delivery is available within a limited distance from the store.

God’s Way Thrift Store is currently open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday; and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday.