Did you know that the second DI store to ever open was in Los Angeles? In 1939, the Los Angeles DI opened its doors for the first time. Since then, this DI has been serving the local community through its job training and employment program and by providing affordable purchasing options for families in the Los Angeles area.  

The exact location has changed over the years and for a time there were multiple DI stores in the area. But when WWII started, and the economy became focused on the war effort, these other locations were consolidated down to the LA store. 

How It All Started  

The Los Angeles store was established as part of the welfare plan of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  

In a pamphlet announcing the new DI location, the Church indicated that the purpose of the store was to “provide opportunities for individuals to become self-sustaining." The store would support the local community, including the many Church members living in the region, by following the four guiding principles of Deseret Industries: 

• Those who have will be given another type of opportunity to help those who have not.  

• Waste will be reduced by keeping our possessions in use as long as possible.  

• The work will employ many now unemployed.  

• Articles in common use, of good quality, will be available at a low cost.

The Los Angeles DI Store Now   

It has been over 80 years since the Los Angeles DI store opened its doors. Even though the store is now in an old part of town, it has strong support from local Church leaders and a very loyal customer base. Some customers comment on how they have shopped at the store for generations, sharing details like how they used thrifted items to clothe their children who are now grown. Others are impressed by the vast selection of items to thrift, including shoes, home furnishings, electronics, books, and collectibles. 

Even though it has been decades since its opening, the store has remained focused on meeting its goal to provide opportunities for people to become more self-reliant. This goal is accomplished through DI’s Ready for Work program, which helps employees known as associates gain important employment skills and experiences while earning a wage. There are about 60 associates currently employed in the Los Angeles DI job training program.  

Shop or Donate at the LA Location Today