Supporting our favorite local bookstores is always so much fun, but what if we could do that and make a positive difference in the world? Housing Works Bookstore, located in NYC, lets you do just that. Their goal is to support those living with HIV/AIDS by providing healthcare, combatting homelessness, and much more. That’s why this bookstore for good is made up of donated items and is run by volunteer staff. One hundred percent of their sales go right back into the incredible work they do for their community.
Let’s dive into the history and mission of Housing Works to learn more about this incredible bookstore.
The History of Housing Works
Housing Works was founded in 1990 by Keith D. Cylar, Charles King, Eric Sawyer, and Virginia Shubert — four members of the ACT UP HIV/AIDS activist group — when they saw how many people with HIV/AIDS were facing homelessness. In the years before the bookstore’s opening, Housing Works began programs that provided housing, independent living, job training, news, and community, all funded through donations.
Since then, their activism and services have grown exponentially. Today, they offer healthcare, such as primary and pediatric care, substance use assistance, and prescriptions to all low-income New Yorkers. They also have legal services available and a Ready For Work program that provides job skills training to disabled and chronically ill New York residents. If you live in New York and are interested in getting involved, you can find out how to volunteer here.
In 1996, the Housing Works Bookstore opened with the aim to not only collect further funds but also change the community’s outlook on the organization. Because of the negative views surrounding HIV/AIDS and homeless people, many felt that Housing Works “would have a negative impact on the presence of the neighborhood.” Instead, the bookstore would be a cozy and pleasant place that would humanize the organization and those it helped.
More Than a Bookstore
The Housing Works Bookstore isn’t just about raising money. It’s also about creating a unique and welcoming space where people can feel safe and where anyone can build community. Like many local bookstores, they regularly host events, like their upcoming book discussion on The Great Bars of New York City. The bookstore can even be rented out for private events or weddings.
But what about a regular day in the bookstore? Well, they of course sell books, along with thrifted clothes and shoes, and an assortment of home decor, music, and DVDs. The Housing Works Bookstore also has a cafe, serving up a variety of delicious drinks, such as cold brews, chai lattes, and hot chocolate, and you can even add a splash of alcohol to them. They serve regular alcoholic beverages too, like beer, wine, and cocktails.
The Housing Works Bookstore is a comfortable place to relax with a good book and a good drink, and it can even be a place to make new friends and get involved with the local community. It’s a must-visit location for anyone visiting NYC. There’s nothing more special than knowing your literary purchases will help Housing Works continue its important work.
You can buy books to support Housing Works here, or you can make a monetary donation here. If you live in NYC or ever find yourself there on a trip, be sure to visit Housing Works Bookstore or one of their thrift store locations, and remember, you can also donate used goods to them.
Interested in other bookstores that are making a positive difference? Find them here.
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