LONG BEACH, Calif. — A charity is asking for some charity this holiday season.

Deon Haywood takes the bus to get to the AIDS Assistance Thrift Store’s new location.

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“I was kind of shocked you know, but then I was just hoping that they weren’t too far,” said Haywood.

Haywood is HIV positive. He is one of hundreds every year who get free clothes and stuff thanks to the nonprofit.

“We don’t judge everybody. Our philosophy is that we’re all here on this planet to help one another,” said the store’s manager, Daniel Johnson.

Johnson has been with the store since it opened almost three decades ago. He lived through the AIDS crisis. It took one of his closest friends.

“His last words to me were 'keep my fight going,' so that’s what I do,” said Johnson.

For most of the store’s existence, it was located on Fourth Street, also known as retro row in Long Beach. However just a few months ago the landlord informed Johnson rent would be tripling, going from $3,300 to $9,000 a month.

“It was a little shocking, mostly ridiculous,” said Johnson.

Rather than settle in for a battle, Johnson left. In December they opened the doors at a new location: 2749 East Anaheim Street.

Rent may be cheaper at the new spot, but moving was expensive. Johnson hopes the community will help.

“We’ve never out and out asked for dollars so it felt a little weird,” said Johnson.

Maybe there’s a gift in store for this thrift store.

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