Lumina Alliance welcomes former Hope Chest Team to launch new thrift store supporting survivors

SAN LUIS OBISPO — Lumina Alliance is proud to announce the upcoming grand opening of Lumina Thrift, a new thrift store in San Luis Obispo, opening at 545 Higuera Street across from Fred & Betty’s on Nov. 17. This new venture brings together Lumina’s mission of supporting survivors with the expertise of a highly respected team known for running one of the most beloved thrift stores in the area.

The entire team, both staff and core volunteers, previously worked at the Hope Chest thrift store, and will continue to bring their professionalism, warmth, and reputation for selecting quality donations to Lumina Thrift. With their help, the shop will continue to be a thoughtfully curated and community-loved destination, now with proceeds supporting Lumina Alliance’s no-cost services for survivors of sexual assault and intimate partner violence.

“We’re so happy to keep doing what we love, working together as a team, connecting with the community, and giving new life to donated treasures,” said Jenann McLennan, who has helped lead the team through the transition. “Partnering with Lumina Alliance means we get to keep that spirit alive while supporting a cause that truly matters. It feels like the start of something really special.”

While this new store is not affiliated with the former Hope Chest business, Lumina Alliance is honored to carry forward the spirit of community care that made the Hope Chest so cherished. Clothing and household items donated to the store will not only be available for sale but will also help furnish Lumina’s emergency shelter and transitional housing units, supporting survivors and their families in tangible, meaningful ways.

Community members are invited to support the new thrift store by donating gently used clothing, household items, and small furniture. Donations will be accepted at Lumina Thrift from 10am-2pm Monday through Friday beginning Monday, October 20th. Proceeds will benefit Lumina Alliance’s no-cost services for survivors, and donated items may also directly support survivors transitioning out of emergency shelter or moving into stable housing.

The community is warmly invited to attend the grand opening on November 17 from 3-5pm and be part of this exciting next chapter in local thrift, with purpose. For questions about donations, please visit Lumina Thrift at 545 Higuera Street or call (805) 592-3956. Follow us on Instagram @LuminaThriftStore to get the latest updates and soft launch information.

About Lumina Alliance
Lumina Alliance is a nonprofit that empowers those impacted by sexual and intimate partner violence through advocacy, healing, and prevention programs. For over 40 years, Lumina has been a beacon of support in San Luis Obispo County, providing essential services to help survivors reclaim their lives and thrive. For more information visit LuminaAlliance.org.