All About Us
Special thanks to the PHILO Project for creating this amazing video!
Founded in 2005, Philadelphia AIDS Thrift is a charitable organization incorporated in Pennsylvania and a federally recognized tax-exempt 501(c)(3) non-profit. Philly AIDS Thrift’s mission is to support local communities affected by HIV/AIDS through the operation of our fabulous retail thrift stores.
Our goal is to sell the lovely, useful, interesting, amusing, and sometimes mysterious items that generous people donate to our thrift store and then distribute the proceeds to local organizations involved in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Philly AIDS Thrift welcomes donations of gently used items all year round, transforming them into proceeds for future grants and continued community impact.
Philly AIDS Thrift location features thousands of items across three floors in the heart of the South Street Headhouse District.
- DONATE: We are in need of DONATIONS of all sorts. Basically, any resellable item in good shape is welcome. See Donations.
- SHOP: Most of all, we need SHOPPERS. Shopping commences every day at 11am, and yes, we are open 7 days a week.
- VOLUNTEER: We would not be able to run the store without our VOLUNTEERS. Thinking about joining? See Volunteer.
Who we serve.
To date, the organization has donated over $5,000,000 to funding programs focused on HIV prevention, outreach, case management, research, and education for people living with HIV/AIDS.
Recently, in February 2025, Philly AIDS Thrift awarded $358,085 total in grants to 34 non-profit HIV/AIDS service organizations and programs across the Delaware Valley.
2025 award winners include:
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Philly AIDS Thrift’s Grant Program began in 2014 to expand its services to the community. Since then, it has grown exponentially, awarding over 200 grants to more than 50 organizations. Even amidst economic challenges, the grant program has maintained its commitment to funding essential services in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The support provided by these grants is more vital than ever in ensuring the resilience and well-being of affected communities.
We couldn’t have done any of this without our wonderful Shoppers, Donors, Volunteers, and Staff. We are forever grateful and thank you from the bottom of our hearts!
Interested organizations should click on the “Grants” tab at the top of the page for more information on applying for our upcoming grants. Applications for grant proposals open in October every year.
In 2014, Philly AIDS Thrift took over the operation of Giovanni’s Room, the oldest LGBT & Feminist bookstore in the nation. The organization renamed the business, Philly AIDS Thrift @ Giovanni’s Room, honoring its 50-year legacy. In 2018, we were able to purchase the building—securing the historic bookstore for future generations. Philly AIDS Thrift @ Giovanni’s Room features hundreds of thrifted items, as well as continually selling copies of used books and new titles.
In 2015, Philly AIDS Thrift launched an HIV testing center inside their retail store. Testing is conducted clinically and professionally in collaboration with various HIV/AIDS charity organizations to provide no-cost, drop-in, and rapid testing, in addition to related counseling services. The testing room helps normalize HIV testing and remove stigmas by providing an alternative for individuals who may not feel comfortable in a clinical environment.
In addition to monetary contributions, Philly AIDS Thrift provides store vouchers in partnership with Philly area HIV/AIDS service providers for clients in need of clothing and household necessities. Thanks to the many local organizations that partner with us in this effort.
