Free pop-up store brings a little festive cheer to Downtown Eastside

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – Hundreds of people on Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside have headed to a festive pop-up store with a difference this weekend.

It’s the fourth year for the Street Store in Vancouver, which is stocked with donated clothing, accessories and toiletries. There are also free haircuts, pizza and hot chocolate.

Organizer Christina Wong says the idea behind the store is to offer homeless shoppers a choice, even if the items are free.

“Everyone deserves the freedom of choice and so the Street Store really does highlight that, because basically what it is, is a free pop-up clothing store.”

“When you go shopping, you go into a store and get to pick what you want and need and what you believe is suitable for yourself. And I basically feel like that concept should be replicated for all.”

“The core behind the Street Store is actually giving choice, and shoppers a dignified experience.”

This year more than 5,000 items were donated to the store, which operates at the site of the Downtown Eastside market.

James was one of those who came along for some clothes, pizza and a hot chocolate.

He says this time of year is particularly tough on the Downtown Eastside.

“It’s cold out here, meanwhile, being homeless, I sleep outside and whatnot, and the majority all the shelters are all full,” he says.

Mitra Tshan coordinates some of the younger volunteers from local schools.

“It’s the little things that we can do, everybody can make a difference. This is all volunteer-based, all out of the kindness of someone’s heart.”

Lucy Guan is a local student volunteering at the market.

“It’s really cold right now and a lot of those in need are coming here cold and it’s good for us to provide them with some sort of winter clothing.”

The Street Store organizers are also considering a summer market for Vancouver.

 

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