In a part of downtown Los Angeles largely lacking in basic amenities, one cafe offers more than just coffee. Made by Downtown Women’s Center Cafe and Boutique has been steadily serving the Skid Row community for over a decade, providing a welcoming space and vital job training for women transitioning from homelessness.
A Different Kind of Coffee Shop
Walking into the cafe feels like any other local coffee shop, with smiling baristas, tables for work, and pastries from Homeboy Industries. However, this establishment distinguishes itself by being fully staffed and run by women who have experienced homelessness.
LaShornda, who has worked at the cafe for approximately four years after receiving supportive housing from the Downtown Women’s Center, now lives independently with her children. Due to safety concerns, her full name is not being used. “We always get second chances. And it was a struggle,” she said, reflecting on her journey to full-time work, housing, and a recent promotion.
LaShornda now trains other women at the cafe, offering many their first job after years of struggling to survive on the streets. “I love it here… I love to see some of the women that come in here every day and I know [their] drinks,” she said.
Addressing a Critical Need
The Downtown Women’s Center serves around 5,000 people annually, providing permanent supportive housing and job training. According to Amy Turk, the center’s CEO, “It’s not your normal image of providing services for people experiencing homelessness.” She highlighted that approximately 23,000 women experience homelessness nightly in Los Angeles, often due to gender-based violence, domestic violence, and income disparities.
Aprons hang on the wall at the Made by DWC candle-making studio.
Alexandria Piñeda, who found herself unhoused on Skid Row after moving from Texas and losing work during the pandemic, found support through the Downtown Women’s Center. She now works with the Made by DWC brand, creating candles, bath salts, and other scented goods just blocks away from the cafe.
Piñeda emphasizes the transformative impact of the program, noting that many women arrive in “survival mode” but, with four months of training, can begin to rebuild their lives. “It completely changes their life and I get to witness that. All the time,” she said.
Visiting Made by DWC
The MADE by DWC Cafe is located at 438 S. San Pedro St., Los Angeles, and is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The monthly Sip & Shop event takes place on the last Friday of each month.
The Made by DWC Resale Boutique is located at 325 S. Los Angeles St, Los Angeles, and is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
What services does the Downtown Women’s Center provide?
The Downtown Women’s Center provides permanent supportive housing and job training, serving approximately 5,000 people annually.
How many women experience homelessness in Los Angeles?
Approximately 23,000 women experience homelessness on any given night in Los Angeles.
What is the Made by DWC brand?
Made by DWC is a brand created by trainees at the Downtown Women’s Center, offering handmade candles, bath salts, and other scented goods.
What role can community-based businesses play in addressing social issues like homelessness?
