History & Mission of the Thrift Store

The Los Angeles Thrift Store has been in continuous operation since 1917 and serves more than 150,000 customers a year.  The Oxnard Thrift Store has been operation since 2008, with the Long Beach Thrift Store operating since 2009.  The stores not only contribute to the local economy by furnishing a ready source of low cost goods and jobs to residents from the surrounding communities, but help fund the Society’s charitable programs and services, such as the Cardinal Manning Center’s emergency and transitional housing programs and Circle V Ranch Camp for disadvantaged and at-risk youth.  In addition, the Society’s volunteer conferences rely heavily on the stores to assist with the provision of free clothing, furniture and appliances. 

Recognized Quality

The Society’s Los Angeles Thrift Store has been recognized by numerous publications such as the Los Angeles Times and Los Angeles Magazine, who have praised both the size of the store’s inventory and the variety and uniqueness of its merchandise. Because new merchandise arrives daily, many shoppers make frequent visits, so as not to miss out on the latest bargains and sales. In addition, the cable TV show Design on a Dime has used the Thrift Store’s furniture in its interior designs and filmed one of its shows at the Thrift Store site.

In Emergencies

Disasters strike without warning and when they do the Society responds with help. Blankets, clothing, shoes and other items are provided free of charge to disaster victims and the Thrift Store trucks are used to deliver food, water and other emergency supplies to shelters and local communities