Claremont’s Black Penny Thrift Turns Small Change Into Community Impact
Black Penny Thrift is more than a resale shop. Founded by Claudia Martinez, built on faith, family and service, the Claremont store offers curated, affordable fashion—and quietly supports neighbors in need, one carefully tagged rack at a time.
If you have ever walked into a shop and felt like the owner poured her whole heart into it, that is the feeling customers describe at Black Penny Thrift.
“I get a lot of compliments on how organized everything is and even how good the store smells. I really take pride in making it feel welcoming,” said owner Claudia Martinez.
From a young age, Martinez knew she wanted to own her own business. After seven years working at a local thrift store in Pomona, she made the decision to step out on her own. With encouragement from her husband, Gabino Martinez, and their children — Victoria, Olivia, Isabel, Abby and Danny — she took the leap.
Within two weeks, the paperwork was complete. Within a month, she had the keys to her own storefront in Claremont. Black Penny Thrift officially opened its doors, offering secondhand clothing, shoes and curated thrift finds at prices designed to make a difference for families watching their budgets.
The name itself reflects Martinez’s vision.
Black is her favorite color. A penny goes a long way. And thrifting proves that a little can become a lot. Black Penny Thrift represents value, purpose and stretching every dollar with style. It is affordable shopping without sacrificing quality.
Unlike large resale chains, Black Penny Thrift is independently owned and operated solely by Martinez. She runs the shop herself — tagging, pricing, organizing racks, managing inventory and keeping the storefront welcoming and clean. Gabino helps on Saturdays when he can, supporting the business behind the scenes, but the daily operations are powered by Martinez’s dedication.
Customers consistently mention three things: affordable prices, organized racks and a clean, fresh-smelling store. Clothing is thoughtfully arranged and displays are tidy, creating a space that feels approachable rather than overwhelming.
For Martinez and her family, however, the business is about more than retail.
“My goal is always to serve people in need,” she said. “I help women who have been in domestic abuse situations and donate to people when I can. Sometimes that means helping financially, but often it means letting someone shop in my store free of charge. I want Black Penny Thrift to be a place that truly supports the community.”
That commitment reflects how Martinez views the broader region.
“I love the small businesses and the local shops and restaurants in our area,” she said. “There is something special about supporting people you actually know. The community here really shows up for each other.”
Like many small retail businesses in Claremont, visibility can be a challenge. The shop is not directly visible from the main street, meaning discovery often happens through word of mouth, social media and loyal customers spreading the word.
“My biggest challenge is making sure I have enough customers because small businesses grow when people show up,” Martinez said. “What keeps me motivated is my family and my customers. They are always encouraging me to keep going.”
In a retail landscape increasingly dominated by online shopping and big-box stores, neighborhood shops like Black Penny Thrift rely on community support. Each purchase, donation and recommendation helps sustain a business built not only on clothing racks and price tags, but on persistence and heart.
In a city known for its independent storefronts and strong small-business culture, Black Penny Thrift adds another chapter to Claremont’s story — proof that sometimes a penny, and a dream, can go a long way.
Thank you to our newsletter sponsor, Black Penny Thrift! You can reach them by phone at (808) 726-5010 or visit the store at 985 W. Foothill Blvd., Suite 107 in Claremont.
