The Gardner Library Bridge Housing Facility

The Los Angeles homeless problem is one of the most pressing issues the city faces. This year, the number of homeless people in Los Angeles rose to almost 60,000. While the City of Los Angeles is working to open more shelters and bridge-housing facilities, the problem continues to increase. We at AETHER Apparel wanted to find a way to help. With that in mind, we reached out to the City of Los Angeles, and they suggested a project that resonated with us: The Gardner Library Bridge Housing Facility in Hollywood, an area that has a high population of homeless women and is located just a few blocks from our headquarters. The project is currently under construction with an opening slated for mid 2019.

This Gardner Library housing facility (named for the historic library in which it is being built) will serve as a home for 30 women at a time for up to two years. This 4,000-square-foot facility will be a place where these women can get back on their feet with the help of case managers and healthcare professionals.

The previously abandoned building was originally constructed in 1958 by architects Honnold and Rex. The rebuild will include new amenities such as showers, a dining area, laundry services, offices, and communal areas. The entry courtyard is surrounded by greenery and allows the women a secure and quiet outdoor space to spend time. Given the historic nature of the building, each design decision is being thoughtfully considered to preserve and enhance the building’s Midcentury Modern architecture. To wit, the library’s original circulation desk and some of the bookshelves are being restored and incorporated into the shelter.

We at AETHER  have set out to raise $25,000 to help furnish the facility and outfit it with amenities the women may need as they transition back into the workforce—from computers to toiletries to clothing. As a company, we will match the amount raised. In partnership with city architects, AETHER will also assist with the design process of the interior, working to make the space feel both comfortable and homey before its opening.

With the help of friends and the Los Angeles community, we hope we can make The Gardner Library Bridge Housing Facility a comforting place for women on the path to changing their lives.

How the AETHER team will be involved:

- Setting up (moving furniture, painting, etc.) during the installation process.
- Obtaining Brand partners
- Implement various fund-raising ideas to reach our goal.
- Create blankets with our excess fabric for each woman to keep.
- Donate framed imagery for wall decor.

If you’d like to get involved, we’ve set up this GoFundMe page. Every little bit makes a difference. We appreciate your support and will continue to provide updates on the shelter’s progress.