During these difficult times it’s hard to see others when you’re dealing with your own issues. So many people have experienced lost in so many ways. Philly AIDS Thrift is serving those infected with HIV and AIDS in the Delaware Valley and showing the hope we all need!
Philly AIDS Thrift’s Mission
It’s is a 501 (c) (3) non profit thrift store that directly benefits HIV/AIDS service organizations. Their mission is to aid in support of over 30,000 people in the Delaware Valley. 30,000 people who have contracted the virus that leads to AIDS! Without the support of donors who often donate goods to be sold and volunteers, Philly Thrift would have a large portion of people without the help they need. They first opened up in 2005 and expanded in 2007. It was in 2011 they moved to their current location of 710 S. 5th street. They have a second location at the historic Giovanni’s Room at 12th and Pine street!
Anniversary Changes
With Covid-19 a lot of big celebrations had to change! Philly AIDS Thrift had to change as well! Last year they were able to raise $300,000 and give to over 26 organizations without any administrative fees! That’s huge! This year they decided to have a Philly AIDS Thrift 15th Anniversary Drive-In Movie Night with collaboration with The Philadelphia Film Society. The movie or choice was Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice! Drive-In movies have been the new outing that allows patrons to completely social distance. All CDC protocols was followed including patrons having to be in their cars unless going to the food trucks or bathroom. Mask were in effect for all movement outside of the car! Oh and if that wasn’t enough they also had food trucks by DumpnRoll and Modpop!
Each ticket helped towards their goal! Oh and by the way they have raised to date 3 million dollars to give to HIV/AIDS groups! That is major! Congrats! Oh and keep your eyes on my Facebook as they also have a book debuting soon! I can’t wait for that!
Drive-In Movie Fun
So last night was amazing. One I got a chance to see of my film friends since the event was sponsored in collaboration with Philadelphia Film Society. I’ve been missing the theatre so badly!
Snacks and Beetlejuice Please
It was easy. I drove up with my ticket, and I was greeted by Beetlejuice (s)! I wasn’t prepared but an immediate smile came on my face! How could it not?! I was directed to where to park! Super simple. I was given a list of rules and CDC regulations to follow. It was so much fun! I hadn’t seen Beetlejuice in forever. You can follow me on Instagram stories to see the fun!
Personal Story
Let me tell you when I moved to Philadelphia I had a hard time adjusting. When we moved to our house we were renting at the time, we needed a new couch. This couch need to be in good condition and not cost a lot of money. Living in Lancaster there are so many great places to get anything from a Thrift store. Philly AIDS Thrift was the only Thrift store I’ve gone to. Not only was the volunteers super nice but they delivered the couch to my house. The delivery people were some of the nicest I had met. I enjoyed that couch for about 2-3 years!
Ways You Can Help
One you can donate all of your goods that is in good condition to them. Remember the selling of those items help those here in Philadelphia who have been dealing with HIV and AIDS. You also can volunteer. Volunteers have been instrumental to the organization’s mission and everyday way of operating. You can also shop! Just like I did over 5 years ago. Shopping for a cause beats out any mall day by far! Lastly donate! You can donate via their PayPal!
So I want to thank Philly AIDS Thrift and the Philadelphia Film Society for the invite. Also I want to thank Aversa PR for the invitation as well as always linking me back to some of my first favorites. It will be 10 years this February and being able to help organizations such as Philly AIDS Thrift has always been a personal mission!
Get Tested
Yes and remember to know your status and get tested! Do not look down on others living with either HIV or AIDS as less than. We have an opportunity to end the stigma and stand with one another! Follow Philly AIDS Thrift on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter!
