New Orleans Free Store Brings Hope to the Lower Ninth Ward

New Orleans — The echoes of Hurricane Katrina still resonate in the Lower Ninth Ward more than two decades later. Many areas remain undeveloped, with empty lots where homes once stood and boarded-up storefronts that were never reopened. On one corner, an old graffiti-covered Family Dollar store gives a first impression of neglect. However, twice a week, this site transforms into a bustling hub as the New Orleans Free Store swings its doors open, providing access to a vast array of clothing, household goods, toys, food, books, and even birth control at no cost.

Inside, essentials like mattresses and furniture line the walls, while bins overflow with purses and shoes. Shoppers, like Ernestine Lane and her friend from church, probe the racks for boots and winter wear, despite the intense August heat. Lane expresses a common sentiment, indicating most locals are unaccustomed to colder climates, thus demanding warm clothing when temperatures eventually drop.

Several industrial fans provide relief from the sweltering heat, as the expansive 9,000 square foot building lacks air conditioning. Despite initial skepticism due to the store’s external appearance, Lane assures others of the ‘blessings’ that lie within. The store’s founder, Dan Bingler, emphasizes that people in need deserve more than just basics. Everyone is entitled to comfort, care, and enjoyable objects.

Bingler established the free store three years ago, transforming the deserted Family Dollar into a community resource. Believing the model could be replicated nationwide, he envisions similar use for vacant properties across the country. This initiative gained momentum during the Covid-19 pandemic when Bingler started organizing grocery deliveries and other aid services.

When Hurricane Ida devastated Louisiana in 2021, Bingler’s efforts expanded into a larger community resource center. Donations from locals filled the property, converted into a rent-free venture, where Bingler covers only the utilities. This collaboration allows the property to be maintained until redevelopment plans unfold.

A typical day at the New Orleans Free Store sees patrons like Hilsa Rodriguez and her stepdaughters Angela and Gloria Calix searching through numerous goods. Angela, aged 8, demonstrates her enthusiasm by selecting animal-print hair clips, while her sister, Gloria, hunts for baggy jeans and other treasures. Her stepmother Rodriguez praises the store’s contributions, which significantly support her family of six.

The facility’s catalog extends beyond material goods, incorporating services like free STI testing, food distribution, and basic medical care, along with art classes, punk shows, and even roller skating sessions. Bingler notes the polished concrete floor serendipitously suits skating needs.

On a typical Wednesday night, Chrishana Simon enjoys roller skating under dimmed lights, describing the liberating feeling on the wheels. Though new to the sport, she learned at the free store, which provides rental skates. Simon emphasizes the allure of the community resource, not just for skating, but for making it a vibrant social hub.

Volunteers like Phyllis Matthews greatly contribute to operations by sorting donated items and aiding patrons. Referred to as ‘Queen’, Matthews is actively sourcing a truck to collect larger donations for the store. The Lower Ninth Ward’s prevailing needs are well-known to Matthews.

Erin Sims sets up a hot dog stand, reflecting on life in the neighborhood. Although Katrina temporarily displaced her, she recounts the arduous journey of rebuilding, aware of the area’s stagnant recovery. With limited access to food and essential goods, the region remains a prominent food desert, a gap Bingler and his collective seek to bridge.

As Bingler continuously gears up for future challenges, his collective aims to respond swiftly to impending storms. With reinforced connections, his team is better prepared for potential hurricane relief efforts, offering shelter, lighthearted roller skating sessions, and much-needed support amidst adversities.