Norris Hardware Workers

Norris Hardware Store has been serving the people of Pacific Palisades for over 93 years.  Today, it closed for good. 

The longtime employees did more than just share their expertise, patience, and desire to help.  They become our friends and vital members of our community who will be dearly missed.

Now they must look for new jobs while supporting their families, paying insurance, and finding ways to cover the other basics Norris provided.  Many have written and said they are scared and unsure how they will make it.

Some have special needs - medical, dental, taxes - others want to retire or start their own businesses.  

It's hard losing one of the anchors of our town.  It's even harder for these people to start over.  This is a way for the Pacific Palisades Community to say thank you and offer them the same thing they have given us for so many years - help and a feeling that they can fix what is broken.

Funds will be withdrawn by Julia Spencer (Employee) to a dedicated account.  The amount will be split between the employees and distributed using Cashiers Checks.  

The funds will be spent by each employee to help cover their basic needs while they are unemployed.  These include basic living expenses like rent, food, kid's clothing, health insurance co-pays, medical costs, and various other essential needs.  Below is specific info about their needs.
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Julia Spencer - Longtime Palisades resident and worker. Wants to expand her caretaking services here. 

"I wish the community could hear how we talk about many of you when we are in the break room.  I wish this town knew how much we love being here and helping with all the crazy projects and household crisis.  We (the employees and managers) are like a family...yes crazy and sometimes dysfunctional...but at the end of the day, we love each other.  This town is our extended family.  Aside from the adult realities and responsibilities that are terrifying us with this closure, it's breaking up our "family" as well. 

Craig Poller - Navy veteran,  Husband of a Palisades Business Owner., Excellent handyman and painter.  Keep him in mind for your next project.  

"Once Norris does shut their doors for good, I ask that you keep me in mind for any handyman projects you or your colleagues may need.  By working together as a community, we can create a deeper connection with each other, which is what the Palisades was founded on."

David Vann - Has worked at Norris for 13 years and 15 years at another store.  Has medical costs to cover.

"I have been married to my angel wife for over 14 years.  I have a 26 year old son.  I thank you for your kind thoughts and good wishes."

Nicolas Jagoras - Always working, he supports his young son, daughter, and his wife's uncle. 

"As the sole provider of my family, it gets hard. But we get by.  And always find a way."

Imelda Ascencio - Cashier with hopes to also go to school.

"After my partner died in 2004, my sister and nephews and myself moved to a small, one bedroom apartment because we couldn't afford the rent.  I am scared if I lose my job, I will not be able to pay my rent or health insurance."

Vernon Davis - The King of the Key Counter.  Wants to retire but his income will drop considerably.

"My medical costs are not going down."

Genevieve (Gen) Skirius - Energetic cashier and receiver.  Would love to find a job working with animals.

"I need help with money for rent.  My rent just went up $500 in Inglewood and I am truly scared!"

Gregory Raymond - Asst Manager. 

"First off, I want to say thank you. Finding a new job hasn't gone very well this far, but I am remaining optimistic.  I have a wife and 4 children at home ranging from 2-9 years old."