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About us

Project Ropa is a Los Angeles-based nonprofit and certified social enterprise with a dual mission: to reduce textile waste and restore dignity to individuals experiencing homelessness and extreme poverty by providing clean clothing and hygiene essentials.

Operating out of a certified green warehouse, we collect, sort, and repurpose new and gently used clothing, shoes, and accessories—distributing them, along with hygiene essentials, directly to those in need through our mobile services and community partners. By transforming discarded garments into opportunities for hope and healing, we not only reduce environmental impact but also empower underserved communities throughout Los Angeles. We proudly operate the only mobile clothing closet of its kind in the Los Angeles area.

 

DID YOU KNOW?

Our government does not recognize clothing or shoes as a basic need—meaning they are not covered by federally subsidized programs like SNAP (food stamps) or WIC. This oversight places a tremendous financial burden on individuals and families already struggling to make ends meet, often forcing them to choose between buying food or accessing clean, well-fitting clothing.

For people experiencing homelessness, how you look can be the first barrier to housing, employment, and even being treated with dignity. Ill-fitting or inappropriate clothing not only affects self-esteem but can also pose serious risks to physical health and mental well-being. Clean clothes and proper shoes tailored to a person’s size, style, and circumstance are essential—not optional.

In California, where more than 181,000 people are experiencing homelessness—the highest number in the nation—access to basic essentials like clothing, shoes and hygiene items is critical. In Los Angeles County alone, over 75,000 individuals are unhoused as of 2024. 

At Project Ropa, we’re working to shift the narrative by advocating for clothing to be recognized as an essential need in California and ensuring equitable access to clean, appropriate clothing and hygiene essentials for all.

We believe that clothing is a basic human right—not a luxury. That’s why we’re pushing for policy change at both the local and state levels to address this overlooked need. Through meaningful partnerships and the unwavering commitment of our volunteers, we’re creating a more just and sustainable future—where compassion drives impact, circularity reduces waste, and both people and the planet are prioritized.

Stories from our clients

It is our privilege to help transform the way people look and feel, and to be able to share their stories about how getting clean clothes from Project Ropa has made an impact on their lives.

Our Latest Blog Posts

Read about the work we are doing in the community.