Following the distribution of about 100 bags of essential items over the summer, Chicago’s Free Street Theater has now partnered with local nonprofit Alt_Chicago and online retailer 2:AM Label to create a free community market at the theater’s Storyfront performance space in the Back of the Yards neighborhood to support the community.
Free Street Theater executive director Karla Estela Rivera said in an announcement Wednesday: “With surging rates of COVID-19 and the mounting economic challenges our community members face, our team remains committed to identifying how to safely be in direct service to the community.”
Alt_Chicago is a Chicago-based arts and social services nonprofit. 2:AM Label is a vintage clothing brand for women.The two organizations have previously partnered to create free markets on Chicago’s South and West Sides.
The Free Street Theater market will accept donations between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Dec. 10 at the Storyfront, 4346 S. Ashland. The market will open Dec. 12. and offer non-perishable food, personal protective equipment, hygiene products, formula and feminine products, gently used clothing and self-care products for women and families. All items will be free of charge and can be accessed 24 hours a day.
Jordan Campbell, co-founder and director of operations at Alt_Chicago said, “We are proud to introduce the new (market) that transforms spaces into a communal free market where members of the community can give and take, thus creating a temporary communal shared economy. … This collaboration is in recognition of the challenges of our time, and the need to respond together as neighbors.”
