Downtown P.R.O. Wants Your Work Clothes
Ed Fuentes
A donation box at Old Bank DVD (400 S. Main).
DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES — People Reaching Out is a Downtown organization that wants to take your pre-owned professional clothing and use it to help those just getting back on their feet look the part for job interviews. Their second annual clothing drive just kicked off, with donation boxes in nine buildings Downtown and four public drop-off locations.
The group, founded by Peter Davis and Jon Toktas, held its first drive last year. This year's effort is expanded to more buildings, with someone in each of the ten locations having worked with management to secure the ok on placing a donation box in community space.
Seven residential buildings are participating: P.E. Lofts, Manhattan Lofts, the Douglas Building, Security Lofts, City Lofts, Chapman Flats and the Santa Fe Lofts. Additionally, donation boxes are available for tenants of the Oviatt Building and members of the Los Angeles Athletic Club.
Those who don't live in a participating building can look for public drop-off boxes at Arda's Cafe (418 W. 6th), Old Bank DVD (400 S. Main), Chanelli Outlet (625 S. Broadway) and Neihule Salon (607 S. Olive).
While the group's website lists a September 30th end date, a delay in getting donation boxes out means that clothing will be accepted through October 7th. Donated clothing will be distributed to homeless shelters and assistance providers.
Amy on September 24, 2008, at 05:29PM – #1
I had a fleeting moment of honesty when I stared into two overstuffed wardrobe boxes this past weekend. I hit a moment of catharsis when I gathered suits, dresses, shoes, purses, and accessories. I made a sizable contribution. Several items even still have tags on them.
Anon on September 24, 2008, at 11:03PM – #2
It was disheartening to see the box from City Lofts in the dumpster in the alley earlier this week.
Rich Alossi on September 25, 2008, at 09:52AM – #3
Luckily the management at the Santa Fe Lofts was more than happy to accept donations. For any residents reading blogdowntown, the donation bin is in the leasing office.
Peter Davis on September 25, 2008, at 04:00PM – #4
Thanks to everyone who donates clothing, allows us to put boxes in their buildings and businesses, Eric and others for getting the word out, and clothing recipient service providers. This year Chrysalis and LA House of Ruth will receive the clothes, two great organizations. In fact, LA House of Ruth, a shelter for battered women and their children, will take children's clothes. Thanks again!!!