As we prepared to announce the opening of the new store, horrific wildfires have engulfed communities around Los Angeles. The Union Rescue Mission, dedicated to helping our communities in need, now operates as a Relief Hub, receiving and distributing essential supplies through our distribution center, thrift stores, and all three mission locations.

If any readers want to help, you can drop off your donations of clothing, household items, blankets, sheets, bath towels, hygiene items, and air mattresses at our new store location at the former Tuesday Morning Store at 23855 Hawthorne Blvd. A truck is in front, and staff will unload your car and provide you with a receipt.

Donations for the fire victims and the store are accepted Monday to Friday, from 6:30 am – 3:00 pm, through February 5th. Beginning February 6th, when the store opens, Monday through Saturday, 10 am – 7 pm, and Sunday, from 11 am to 6 pm.

Anyone affected by the fires can shop in URM thrift stores free of charge. All children will receive a toy or stuffed animal. The list of locations is at the end of this article.

Shop, save, and support the area’s unhoused while enjoying terrific bargains on brand-new merchandise and curated thrift

Fashion with a passion has taken on a whole new meaning, thanks to the new Union Rescue Mission Store, opening on Thursday, February 6th, in the former Tuesday Morning Store at 23855 Hawthorne Blvd. The store will offer half carefully curated pre-loved items and half all-new merchandise. From wedding gowns to footwear, from apparel for men, women, and children to toys, accessories, jewelry, home goods, and gifts – all will be priced significantly below wholesale. Apparel manufacturers throughout the southland donate the new merchandise, receive tax deductions, and enjoy free pick-up. The community donates pre-loved items and gets a tax deduction. These donations from the industry and individuals lessen the amount of goods that could otherwise go to landfills.

This is excellent news for shoppers who love finding bargains while supporting a good cause. The proceeds from the Union Rescue Mission Store support the Mission’s much-needed services for struggling families and individuals. At other store locations, for example, brides-to-be have purchased gorgeous wedding gowns initially priced at $1200 - $5000 for $250 - $300, while grooms-to-be enjoyed a selection of evening suits. All while helping to feed and care for the homeless, the proceeds from the Union Rescue Mission Store support the mission's services.

“It is such a privilege to open this new store in Torrance, and we are already getting enthusiastic support from the community,” said Ella VanNort, Director of Retail Operations for the Union Rescue Mission. “Many residents have expressed how they like to shop for a cause, give back, and decrease their carbon footprint. This is a perfect fit, as the URM is the oldest and largest privately funded mission in the United States, and the store – both through the revenue we generate through sales and the training and employment opportunities granted to graduates of the mission’s programs - will have a tremendous impact on our community and URM’s efforts.”

Shoppers can peruse apparel and accessories from top and independent brands, along with household goods, furniture, and décor. New and gently used merchandise will be added to the floor regularly, so return visits are recommended.

The Union Rescue Mission is a non-profit organization dedicated to serving people experiencing homelessness. Established in 1891, URM is one of the largest rescue missions in the United States and receives zero government support. URM earns a perfect 100 rating by Charity Navigator and utilizes 85% of every dollar donated to life transformational programs that provide a comprehensive array of emergency and long-term services. These include food, shelter, clothing, medical, mental, and dental care, Christian recovery programs, transitional housing, legal assistance, education, counseling, and job training for men, women, children, and families in need.

Union Rescue Stores and Locations

COVINA THRIFT STORE

280 E. ARROW HWY, COVINA, CA 91722

Drop off hours:

Monday - Saturday: 9 am to 5 pm

Sunday: 12 pm to 4:30 pm

WHITTIER THRIFT STORE

15918 WHITTIER BLVD, WHITTIER, CA 90603

Drop off hours:

Monday – Saturday: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Sunday: 12:00 pm to 4:30 pm

UNION RESCUE MISSION DTLA