Relaunch Hell's Kitchen Free Store!

Background

In March 2021, two neighbors initiated Hell's Kitchen Free Store, a mutual aid effort to encourage neighbors to share items rather than trash. The Free Store was set up in a doorway arch of an abandoned storefront on West 45th Street between 9th & 10th Avenues and was well received by the community and our neighborhood’s leaders.

Over two years, countless neighbors donated and received beloved items -- whether it was kitschy home decor, books from a constantly rotating library, or necessary toiletries. The Free Store received thousands of visitors and became a place for neighbors to meet, connect, and share.

An unfortunate turn of events

In March 2023, there was a string of vandalism attacks, followed by a complete demolition of the store overnight. Despite speaking with building owners, neighbors, and multiple government organizations, we were unable to determine the source of these attacks.

In talks about next steps, several neighbors voiced concerns about a lack of support and security in the Free Store's existing form. Instead of rebuilding, we chose to instead temporarily shut down.

A new beginning

Over the past 5 months, we've continued to receive messages from neighbors asking if and when we can rebuild, and lamenting the loss of the store.

Keeping in mind building owner support, maintenance, and longevity, our search turned up a perfect spot on West 45th Street between 10th & 11th Avenues. The building owners welcome us with open arms but have requirements about the store structure being fireproof and secure.

The Ask

A volunteer engineer has provided a design that meets building requirements. However, as a collective of neighbors interested in mutual aid, we have no funding sources to pay for materials to rebuild the HK Free Store. The amount we are seeking directly breaks down to the following:

Custom metal shelving units: $1200

Custom metal roofing: $400

Permanent signage: $300

Delivery and fitting costs: $500

GoFundMe fees: $150

We are looking to rebuild and launch by September 30, 2023. If 250 neighbors donate $10 each, we will be able to hit our goal!