Down Memory Lane - HOT Second-hand Store and Boutique (formerly the House of Thrift)

The House of Thrift closed its doors for the final time on January 31st, 2010. We would like to thank Loma Linda University School of Nursing and the City of Loma Linda for its generous support throughout the years. The store had a rich history of partnership.

HOT Second-hand Store and Boutique evolved from the rummage sales held by Alumni Board members on the streets of San Bernardino early in the Association’s history in response to requests for funds from alumni in mission service. The partnerships continue today. The University provides the land and a low monthly lease arrangement.

In the 1970s alumni and their families voluntarily erected the metal building that serves as the store. The community generously donates high quality items. For many years alumni and friends in the community have donated their time to sort, display, and sell items day after day.

Because volunteerism isn’t what it once was, the Association has hired a manager and five assistants. Though this practice affects the earnings available for projects, it meets the Association’s objective to relieve poverty in the community. Serving as manager for more than 20 years, Joni Jones has been assertive in establishing partnerships with the courts and other community agencies by providing a job-training program for adolescents and individuals meeting community service requirements.

The name change was the inspiration of our manager as she identified the many donated collectable treasures. The name communicates that the store is a step above the rest. She has also partnered with the local antique dealers who are given first option to buy these items. The Boutique was initiated in the 1990s and contains treasures of art, glass, furniture, first edition and rare books, among other quality finds. Also there is a great section of E. G. White books, children’s books, and other Christian books at very reasonable prices.

Since donations are bountiful, partnerships have been created for community service. This aspect continues to grow by leaps and bounds with some 164 churches and non-profit agencies utilizing HOT for their clients. Vouchers are provided by these groups for those in need. They are then submitted as payment for the needed items at the store. In a partnership with ACTS, the University Church Outreach Program, HOT has been designated as a local disaster relief resource.

In addition, non-saleable items are given to groups that are willing to wash, mend, and distribute them to persons in need. Every six months to a year the store’s clothing racks are cleared and given to a thrift store in Mexico and Adventist Disaster Relief Agency (ADRA) for distribution. Sleeping bags and jackets are placed near the front door for homeless individuals needing them.

To ensure continuation of the indispensable contributions made by HOT to the local and international communities, keep your donations of newer used salable items coming. Consider donating some of your time to the operation. A regular commitment each week or month would decrease the need for paid employees. If you would like to know more, call Joni Jones, manager, HOT Second-hand Store and Boutique, at (909) 796-7709.

Mailing address:

HOT Second-hand Store and Boutique
P. O. Box 1839
Loma Linda, CA 92354