Closet Stores The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) has announced a significant initiative through its Southern California-based Out of the Closet (OTC) thrift stores to support wildfire relief efforts in Los Angeles. This award-winning chain will host a donation drive coupled with a storewide sale this weekend, with 30% off everything to raise funds for ongoing wildfire relief. The event will take place on Saturday, January 18, and Sunday, January 19, with all proceeds from the sales and donations directly benefiting the relief efforts.
Participating Locations
Several Southern California Out of the Closet locations will participate in this two-day event. These stores, known for their community-oriented approach, will open their doors to customers Closet Stores and donors alike:
- Atwater Village: 3160 Glendale Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90039
- Glassell Park: 2425 N. San Fernando Road, Los Angeles, CA 90065
- Hollywood: 4905 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90027
- Long Beach: 3500 Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach, CA 90804
- West Hollywood: 8224 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90046
These locations will maintain their regular operating hours, from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily, to maximize community participation.
Donation Guidelines
Out of the Closet welcomes donations of clothing and other items at Closet Stores all participating locations. While donated goods will not be directly distributed to wildfire evacuees, they will be sold in-store to generate funds for the relief efforts. This approach ensures that proceeds can address immediate and longer-term needs for affected communities.
Immediate Relief Contributions
Out of the Closet and the broader AHF network have already made substantial Closet Stores contributions to wildfire relief. On January 8, OTC staff and managers mobilized quickly to deliver essential supplies to evacuees at the Pasadena Convention Center. This effort included the purchase and delivery of 100 new pillows and blankets, providing much-needed comfort to those displaced by the fires. Additionally, OTC staff delivered 16 boxes of clothing, amounting to approximately 1,400 items, during the critical early hours of the crisis.
These actions underscore the organization’s commitment to addressing immediate needs while planning longer-term strategies to support wildfire-affected individuals and families.
Food for Health Program
In addition to the efforts by Out of the Closet, AHF’s “Food for Health” program has played a pivotal role in the wildfire relief initiative. Since January 7, the program has provided over 20,000 hot meals to Closet Stores evacuees and first responders. At the Pasadena Convention Center, evacuees have been able to access free meals that offer both nutrition and comfort during this challenging time.
Moreover, the Food for Health program has Closet Stores extended its support to firefighters battling the Palisades wildfire. At the Will Rogers State Beach Wildfire Command Center, the team has delivered hot breakfast sandwiches and burritos, which are then packed and transported to front-line firefighters. These meals Closet Stores provide vital sustenance to those working tirelessly to protect lives and property.
The Out of the Closet Legacy
Founded in 1990 by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Out of the Closet thrift stores were Closet Stores originally established to fund HIV/AIDS testing and treatment services. Over the years, the chain has grown into a trusted community partner, with 25 stores operating across nine states. Remarkably, 96 cents of every dollar spent at Out of the Closet goes directly into patient care, underscoring the organization’s commitment to making a tangible impact.
While the stores have traditionally focused on supporting HIV/AIDS initiatives, their ability to pivot Closet Stores and address other urgent community needs, such as wildfire relief, highlights their Closet Stores adaptability and dedication to serving the greater good.
The Growing Need for Community Support
The ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles have displaced thousands of residents and caused widespread devastation. Areas like Pasadena and the Pacific Palisades have been particularly hard-hit, with countless families seeking shelter and support. Community-driven efforts like the OTC donation drive and sale are vital for Closet Stores addressing the immediate and evolving needs of those affected.
The rapid response from Out of the Closet, combined with the comprehensive support provided by AHF’s Food for Health program, demonstrates the power of community organizations in times of crisis. By leveraging existing resources and mobilizing quickly, these initiatives have provided critical relief to evacuees and first responders.
How You Can Help
Community members can contribute to the relief efforts in several ways:
- Shop at Participating Locations: Take advantage of the 30% off sale to purchase quality thrift items while supporting a good cause. Every dollar spent helps fund wildfire relief efforts.
- Donate Goods: Drop off gently used clothing and other items at any participating Out of the Closet location. These items will be sold to raise additional funds for the relief initiative.
- Spread the Word: Encourage friends and family to visit Out of the Closet stores this weekend. Sharing information about the event on social media can amplify its impact.
- Volunteer: Reach out to AHF or Out of the Closet to explore volunteer opportunities. Whether it’s helping sort donations or assisting with store operations, your time can make a difference.
A Broader Perspective
While the immediate focus is on wildfire relief, the efforts of Out of the Closet and AHF reflect a broader commitment to community well-being. These organizations recognize that crises like wildfires require collective action and a willingness to adapt resources to meet urgent needs. By engaging the community through events like the donation drive and sale, they create opportunities for individuals to contribute meaningfully to the recovery process.
Moreover, initiatives like Food for Health highlight the importance of addressing basic human needs, such as nourishment, during times of crisis. The program’s ability to deliver thousands of meals in a short time frame underscores the critical role of logistics and coordination in disaster response.
A Call to Action
As the Los Angeles community continues to grapple with the aftermath of the wildfires, the need for support remains immense. Out of the Closet’s donation drive and sale offer a tangible way for individuals to make a difference. By participating in this weekend’s event, community members can contribute to the recovery efforts while also benefiting from the unique offerings of one of Southern California’s most beloved thrift store chains.
The partnership between Out of the Closet, AHF, and the broader Los Angeles community serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when people come together to address urgent needs. Whether through shopping, donating, or volunteering, every contribution helps pave the way for a stronger, more resilient community.
