Frida Rose Gaspar

Tucked behind a renovated six-story apartment on an unassuming street lies the “Largest Thrift Store in LA”, according to the St. Vincent De Paul (SVDP) website. Society of St. Vincent Depaul’s is a Catholic volunteer organization that specifically supports low-income and unhoused populations. The international organization landed in Los Angeles in the early 1900s and established the downtown LA location in 1969. Located in the historic Lincoln Heights neighborhood, the foundation’s thrift store chain holds a significant space in the hearts of Angelenos. The real magic is in the work that St. Vincent does behind the scenes. According to an article written by Tom Wilmer for KCBXfm, all proceeds from the Los Angeles stores go directly to the foundation’s programs within the city. 

SVDP offers many programs to help displaced people, one being the CMC or Cardinal Manning Center, a men’s homeless shelter in Skid Row. Prioritizing “‘Housing First and ‘Harm Reduction’” (SVPD), the CMC can work with people on a case-by-case basis to address individualized issues. Growing up in Los Angeles, Skid Row has always been seen as this anomaly within the city. However, I find this perspective rather limiting as it separates the people who live on skid row from those who don’t. In reality, as “average” people are closer to living in the conditions on Skid Row than we are to relating to Mark Cuban, Jeff Bezos, or any other rich person you can think of. 

When people talk about what’s wrong with LA, homelessness is always a hot topic. However, othering of displaced people within my city has always seemed to seep into the conversation. When dismantling this idealogy, understand that thrift stores are not a trend. These are options for some and necessities for others. No matter what our income status is, everyone deserves the right to clothing. 

I remember this whenever I go to a thrift store, or shop second-hand. It is important to highlight some of the amazing work that organizations have done for communities no matter the size. Understanding the ways we show our support matters in the general picture of life. Los Angeles is such a popular tourist destination and has so much to offer. If you ever find yourself in the Lincoln Heights area, definitely stop by and check out SVDP. With one of the largest thrift store locations in the nation right within Los Angeles, it is worth checking out. You are bound to find something unique and special inside, all while helping out the greater Los Angeles community.

By Frida Rose Gaspar