SCRAP, a popular arts nonprofit in San Francisco, has been operating in Bayview since the 1970s. Since its inception, the nonprofit has emphasized art accessibility while being environmentally conscious. As a result, SCRAP runs a warehouse filled to the brim with recycled supplies to fuel San Franciscans’ creative projects. The massive store saves over 200 tons of waste each year, while thousands of people flock to the store in search of a wide range of materials at affordable prices.
Now, after years in their current location, SCRAP’s lease is up, and they are looking for a permanent space. The nonprofit has been renting its Bayview warehouse for just $1,000 a month from the San Francisco Unified School District, but its lease is set to end next June due to plans to rebuild the warehouse. The nonprofit announced it would need a new space earlier this spring, and they’re asking fellow San Franciscans for help. SCRAP is seeking a space of 10,000 square feet in San Francisco, with a parking lot and loading dock among other amenities. If you want to support SCRAP, they are accepting donations online or are open to any leads for their search.
SCRAP was first founded in 1976 by Anne Marie Theilen, who was in charge of a program that placed professional artists in schools. Due to a limited budget, the artists had difficulty getting art supplies for their classrooms. This led Theilen to team up with local artist Ruth Asawa to create the art supply store using materials that would typically be thrown away by local businesses. Since then, the store has become a staple for SF creatives, making art more accessible with affordable materials.
SCRAP also regularly hosts workshops with local artists, including jewelry making, Denim bag making, painting on fabric, and more. They also regularly have programs for children, focusing on underserved communities in SF.
If you want to learn more about SCRAP, or help donate for them to find their new home, check out their website here. SCRAP is located at 2150 Newcomb Ave, San Francisco, and is open Tuesdays through Sundays.