Caroline’s Thrift holds annual gifting ceremony

Caroline’s Thrift holds annual gifting ceremony 
The Pajaronian, Santa Cruz, CA; by Todd Guild; 2/20/25
It has been 15 years since Caroline’s Thrift opened, and since that time owner Christine Licker has donated tens of thousands of dollars to local nonprofits. On Feb. 9, Licker held her annual gifting ceremony, during which she handed out checks to 37 organizations totaling $575,500. That brings the total she has given out to more than $4.5 million. She says her inspiration in opening the store was her daughter Caroline, who died at 16 after receiving support from four nonprofits. In her first year, she gave away $40,000, a number that grew to $120,000 the next year. The gifts, she says, are both a way to say 'thank you' and to help the organizations with their mission. ... [This year's list of recipients includes: ...]

• Hospice of Santa Cruz County – $30,000 Total: $402,500