Record donations by Philly AIDS thrift

Philly AIDS Thrift awarded more than $324,000 to help 31 different local HIV/AIDS service organizations that center around preventing and treating the disease. 

The new donations set a new benchmark as Philly AIDS Thrift surpassed $4.6 million in donations and awards in just 10 years. 

“This is by far my favorite moment of the entire year,” said Philly AIDS Thrift Board President Michael Byrne. “To be able to have such a profound impact on programs that are doing tremendous work on behalf of individuals and communities impacted by HIV/AIDS across the Delaware Valley is truly humbling. We are forever grateful for our staff, our volunteers, our donors and our loyal customers. Thank you, sincerely, from the bottom of our hearts.”

Philly AIDS Thrift’s Grant Program began in 2014 as a way to serve the community and it has awarded more than 200 grants to more than 50 different organizations. This year’s grant recipients include South Philly’s Mazzoni Center as well as 30 other organizations serving South Philadelphia and other areas in the Delaware Valley.

As the 2023-24 cycle has concluded, organizers will seek applications for the next cycle near the end of the year. Philly AIDS Thrift is encouraging residents to consider donating gently used items to its location at 710 S. 5th St. or to Philly AIDS Thrift at Giovanni’s Room at 345 S. 12th St. Contributions generate the proceeds and funds awarded in future grant cycles. Philly AIDS Thrift features thousands of items on three floors in the heart of the South Street Headhouse District. For more information about grant awards, donations or how to get involved, visit www.phillyaidsthrift.com or call 215-922-3186.

“It is amazing to all of us that we have surpassed the milestone of giving away over $4.6 million since our inception,” said Philly AIDS Thrift’s cofounder/executive director, Christina Kallas-Saritsoglou. “Our staff and volunteers work very hard every day to make sure that we can make the biggest difference possible in the lives of people living with HIV/AIDS. We could not do it without our generous donors and enthusiastic shoppers.”