Whittier Free Store News

Thanks to the support of over 100 backers, our Kickstarter fundraising campaign was a success, raising over $5,000.

The Whittier Time Bank and Catalyst Network of Communities are building Make Space: Free Store & Artisan Work Lab, working with community members to upgrade two unused classrooms to house this new sharing economy initiative.

The Whittier Free Store is scheduled to open this summer; the Artisan Work Lab will follow in 2016.

Having spent the past six months removing debris, cleaning thick layers of dust, stripping walls, replacing ceiling tiles, repairing water damage, painting and polishing floors, we are in the final stages of preparation.

Kickstarter funds were deposited in July, and so far, we have used them to install energy-efficient track lighting. Our team is currently selecting a point of sale inventory and membership management system. Following a final coat of paint and installation of new baseboards, we will begin store setup with existing and newly purchased display fixtures.

Come to a work day! Help build the Whittier Free Store and Artisan Work Lab every other Sunday. Individuals or groups can join us 2:00-6:00 p.m. on the following dates:

  • July 26th

  • August 9th and 23rd

Find us upstairs in the education building at 12907 Hadley Street, 90601.

Please hold your donations of stuff for the Free Store until our grand opening.