KABC-7 reports Skid Row People’s Market will soon be owned by a Black-led nonprofit. The shop was under the leadership of Danny Park, who took over after the passing of his father. Ever since, Park has dedicated himself to running a store that prioritizes the community, even offering store credit for customers who were low on funds.
“This market has been a place that offers store credit when you’re running low at the end of the month, free electricity and water, fresh and affordable products, a sense of safety, security and refuge for folks living on the streets,” Park said during a press conference, according to the outlet.
Now, the store’s ethos is being passed along to Creating Justice LA. Also known as The Shaw Community Transformation Corp., the nonprofit was established by Pastor Stephen Cue Jn-Marie to economically improve Skid Row, its website mentions.
“Danny said ‘I don’t want a for-profit person to come in and just be about profit. I want the legacy of the market to continue,’” Jn-Marie told KABC-7.
Reflecting on the decision, Park noted, “As a Korean American, this moment feels like a deep bow of veneration, respect and gratitude to the African American community.”
While Creating Justice LA prepares for the journey ahead, the organization also plans to secure additional profits so it can sustain its community work.
“We’re trying to raise $300K. Not just to purchase the store, but also to continue to run our nonprofit,” Jn-Marie expressed to KABC-7.
