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Selma Roots has a chance to become a successful store in the community for years.

Based on the support we witnessed at the August 2 ribbon cutting ceremony, Selma Roots is in good hands. The store is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 6 p.m.

Proceeds support the Gospel Tabernacle Church’s Sonlight Center food pantry. According to Gospel Tabernacle Pastor John Grayson, proceeds go to several other programs, including the summer camp that had 121 kids in attendance and the Winston Williams Shelter for the Homeless on Broad Street that his church opened earlier this year. It also will support All Things Are Possible, which is the Walton Theater.

“The new Selma Roots is an upgrade from the thrift store across the river,” Grayson said. “But this is not just a thrift store. This is where people coming in from the north side coming into Selma, everybody will stop and get their welcome to Selma.”

When you’ve got Pastor Grayson on your side, Selma Roots is in good hands.

Selma Roots is run by Betty Oldroyd, who used to run Never Forgotten Treasures across the Alabama River on Highway 80. Oldroyd is known for her generosity. She helps Grayson and they make a strong team.

We’re also glad to see the University of Alabama College of Business being involved as a partner in Selma Roots, assisting with economic development. We applaud Alabama for having Preston McGee, a Dallas County High graduate of 2019 and recent Alabama graduate, in town as a liaison. 

The City of Selma and Dallas County Commission deserve high-fives as well for their unwavering support. 

We’re rooting for the success of Selma Roots.