Hello, neighbors!

Some of the best story ideas come directly from the community.

Today’s feature began with an email from Leslie A. Duran, philanthropy specialist at Hillcrest. She told me how Hillcrest’s Good Samaritan Fund helps bridge the gap between the cost of skilled nursing care and Medi-Cal reimbursements. The fund allows Hillcrest to care not only for its residents but also for Medi-Cal recipients from the broader community.

Reporter Kaitlyn McMullin followed up and discovered a story about much more than fundraising. Her feature highlights the volunteers, friendships and sense of purpose behind the Hillcrest Thrift Store—and just one of the many groups working to make a difference in our community.

Have a story idea? Please reach out. Your email might just lead to our next feature.

Staci

Secondhand Treasures, Lasting Connections

By Kaitlyn McMullin

At Hillcrest Thrift Store in La Verne, volunteers begin the day sorting through boxes of donations and deciding which items to price and place on shelves. Every purchase does more than give an item a new home—it helps support care for local seniors. 

“We hit the ground running for sure,” volunteer Doreen Lamothe said. “Being a thrift store, we never know what we are going to receive.”