About Charity’s Closet
The purpose of Charity’s Closet is to provide a dependable source of revenue to support HIS-OC, and to raise awareness of our shelter and the ever-increasing homeless problem in Orange County.
A thrift shop run with heart
By 2004, it became apparent to HIS-OC volunteers that the staff and residents could no longer accept, process or use the tremendous volume of donations from the community, so a plan for a thrift store in the neighborhood was researched and developed.
In March 2006, an all-volunteer group opened a store where donations were made available to the general public, with all proceeds going to support the shelter. Today the shop is managed, staffed and supported by over 70 volunteers.
From farmhouse to HIS House to HIS-OC
Our story began in 1989. The Placentia Presbyterian Church bought a large farmhouse about a hundred yards from the church. The good people of the church weren’t sure how to use it — until one member encountered a homeless family, with a pregnant mother, living in a park, and couldn’t stand the thought of them spending another night on the streets. The family was invited to stay at the farmhouse, and it became HIS House.
Over time it became a refuge — a safe place where homeless individuals and families could turn their lives around and move toward self-sufficiency. The family program, now called the Transitional Housing Program, has expanded to house 54 people and has helped thousands of families overcome homelessness.
In 2020, HIS House added three new programs, changed its name to Homeless Intervention Services of Orange County, and became its own 501(c)(3). The cozy farmhouse, now cream with black trim, is still here — just bigger, stronger and brighter than ever.
Transitional Housing
A 4–6 month program helping families rebuild their lives, reunite, and find their way back to homes of their own.
TAY (Transitional Aged Youth)
Education, job training and transitional housing for young men.
HomeShare OC
Pairs homeless college students with local seniors so both can thrive and help each other in a shared home.
Housing Connection
Networking and referrals, including two North Orange County resource centers at the Whitten and Gomez Community Centers.