🏠 City Council prioritizes housing poorest residents

City Council Pushes Back With Housing Budget Amendment

Mayor Parker’s housing plan is held up as some City Council members push to direct more funds to programs supporting the city's poorest residents. The Parker administration claims this may delay the release of money to create and restore thousands of units of housing, but Council President Kenyatta Johnson says the legislative body “refuses to rush into issuing $800 million in debt.” [🔒 The Inquirer]

Philly Public School Enrollment Drops As Closures Loom

Despite gains made last year, the School District of Philadelphia’s enrollment dipped by more than 1,000 students this year. The data was released as officials are still figuring out which schools to close and consolidate as part of its new facilities plan. One concern with the plan is that closures could be difficult for students with autism. [Chalkbeat]

Parking Enforcement or Predatory Workaround?

Residents in Northern Liberties are raising alarm over “windshield barnacles” used as parking enforcement tactics in a private lot, with some saying they’re being charged over $100 to remove each device. Critics say this approach is a way to evade the city’s Ticket-to-Tow Law. [6ABC]

Get Help To Stay Warm This Winter

With the federal shutdown officially over, residents can now access federal funds to cover heating bills throughout the colder months. Applicants to the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program can get help within the next two weeks, once the application is filed and processed. [CBS Philly]

• Related: Here are some other money-saving tips to keep energy costs down. [📝 City Cast Philly]

The changing of the seasons is the perfect time to be out with the old and in with the (like) new. Philly business corridors in neighborhoods like Old City, Fishtown, and Queen Village have vibrant second-hand scenes. Whether you’re trying to be frugal or you want to shop more sustainably, consider browsing these stores — especially the next time you drop off your donations.

For the Classic Thrift Experience

If you’re looking to save, swing by Bargain Thrift Center in Germantown and Circle Thrift in East Kensington for deals on clothing and household items.

Philly AIDS Thrift has multiple floors and rooms to explore for not just clothing but kitchenware, decor, and books. Proceeds from sales go to local organizations serving communities affected by HIV/AIDS.

There are several Goodwill locations from Parkside to South Philly to Northeast Philly with plenty of large bins to dive into.

For Curated Vintage

B-Bop Vintage is one of several vintage stores sprinkled around Queen Village, keeping Fabric Row’s textile legacy alive. Browse handpicked items from decades past.

For Buying by the Pound

If you’re a reseller, Bulk Vintage is the place for you. The large warehouse space is accessible by appointment or for open houses on the third Saturday of every month. You can “shop like a dealer” or try your luck finding an item for yourself. While there, be sure to visit the special collection curated by Briar Vintage on the third floor for clothing from throughout the 20th century.

For the Kiddos

Lilypad Thrift serves newborns to 12-year-olds. You can find pre-loved clothing, books, toys, puzzles, and baby gear for sale. Lilypad also hosts a large consignment sale at Old Pine Community Center twice a year.

Everland specializes in sustainable goods for kids, and also hosts open play and swaps. In addition to its new eco-friendly products, the store also sells gently-used clothes, books, and toys.

Every Thursday, we highlight shoutouts from our City Cast Philly Neighbors. Become a member to tell us what you love about Philly.

Thanks Megan for the suggestion and for supporting our podcast and newsletter 🧡