The Arcadia Welfare and Thrift Shop serves a dual purpose: a non-profit department store with thrift shop prices and as a local welfare agency for those in need. The article discusses the types of assistance given. All programs are funded by sales from the thrift shop.
Arcadia has unique welfare facility that doesn't cost taxpayers even one penny. Arcadia Welfare and Thrift Shop provides emergency and temporary welfare throughout Arcadia Unified School District. Program financed by sale at shop of donated clothing, furniture, books, tableware and even automobiles.
The Arcadia Welfare and Thrift Shop is beginning its 51st year. Thrift shop manager Dorothy Smith tells of the changes and growth since its opening during the depression, and describes the types of merchandise to be found in the "non-profit department store with thrift shop prices."
Ruth Gilb, president of the board of directors of the Arcadia Welfare and Thrift Shop, says the store is a vital part of the community. Not only is it a retail store, it is a social service facility that provides assistance to people with financial, family, and personal problems.
Dorothy Cowan Smith, for 30 years active in Arcadia business community, has retired as manager of the Arcadia Welfare and Thrift Shop, with which she has been affiliated for more than 18 years.
Nanci Lee Stewart, experienced in merchandising, has been appointed the new manager of the Arcadia Welfare and Thrift Shop, succeeding Dorothy Smith, who is retiring after 10 1/2 years as manager.
Arcadia Welfare and Thrift celebrates 80 years with a ceremonial ribbon cutting. Pictured are Arcadia Mayor Robert Harbicht, Arcadia Welfare and Thrift President Terry Totten, and a large group of supporters and friends. The store has helped the less fortunate, particularly the homeless.
Paul and Selma Backert, who operated a dry goods store at 221 N. First Avenue from at least 1928 to approximately 1940. They came to Los Angeles area in about 1890 and operated general merchandise stores in Newhall and Lancaster. They lived at 212 N. Myrtle in Monrovia.
The Arcadia Business Association has requested a moratorium on beauty and nail shop in the downtown business district. There are reportedly 16 salons downtown and another 8 more on First Avenue south of California.
Assistance League of Arcadia holds annual holiday boutique to fund clothing and school supplies for Operation School Bell Program at the Bargain Box Thrift Shop, 64 East Live Oak Avenue, Arcadia, CA
Spotlight on local business, a hair salon called 1st Ave Salon, located at 10 N. First Avenue, Arcadia, CA. Owner is Veka Estrada, a Temple City resident.