Supporting El Rivera: A Community Story of Resilience and Hope

For over two decades, El Rivera has experienced periods of homelessness in the Leimert Park community—often sleeping in her car, yet continuing to write and share her voice as a world-renowned poet.

El first met Manny Jackson, founder of Thread Haus, after purchasing one of the brand’s signature upcycled pieces from the local retail co-op Sole Folks. As Manny learned more about El’s story, he saw her as the embodiment of resilience—and the perfect candidate to represent the StreetSleeper Initiative, Thread Haus’ project that turns fashion into functional shelter through jackets that convert into sleeping bags.

Despite her extraordinary talent and strength, El has faced immense challenges as a single Black woman navigating life on the streets—from unsafe living conditions to being the victim of multiple assaults and stalking. Over the years, she’s struggled to qualify for housing through city programs like HOPICS because she refused to falsely claim a mental health condition or substance abuse issue. Recently, El was able to secure temporary housing on her own, but the risk of returning to homelessness remains high.

To help El build stability and reclaim her peace, Thread Haus is launching a community fundraiser and four-day pop-up event in Leimert Park. The event will feature the latest Thread Haus pieces and invite the community to:

• Shop and support the StreetSleeper Initiative,

• Donate gift cards or essentials,

• Contribute toward helping El with housing, transportation, and food security for the next year.

This initiative is more than charity—it’s about showing up for one of our own, celebrating a creative spirit who has given so much to her community, and proving that compassion and collaboration can truly change lives.

Join us to stand with El Rivera, support the StreetSleeper Initiative, and help turn compassion into action.