SCRAP Faces Eviction: San Francisco Nonprofit Searches for a New Home
After 25 years in its Bayshore warehouse, SCRAP must vacate its location by June 2025 due to SFUSD’s redevelopment plans.
SCRAP, the San Francisco-based nonprofit that has provided artists and teachers with low-cost, repurposed materials for nearly 50 years, is being forced to relocate. After 25 years in its Bayshore warehouse, the organization must vacate the space by June 2025 to make way for a $200 million SFUSD central kitchen project.
The San Francisco Unified School District, which owns the building, has offered a potential one-year lease extension, but the nonprofit needs a permanent space. Without it, SCRAP’s ability to continue serving the community is in jeopardy.
Founded in 1976 by sculptor Ruth Asawa and SF Arts Commissioner Anne Marie Theilen, SCRAP was built on the idea of creative reuse. It has since become a vital resource for teachers, artists, and environmental advocates. Teachers use SCRAP to source affordable supplies for their classrooms. Artists rely on it for unique materials. The organization diverts thousands of pounds of items from landfills annually, offering an alternative to waste.
SCRAP is now searching for a 9,000+ square foot space in San Francisco with parking, loading access, and a landlord willing to work with a nonprofit. Finding affordable real estate that meets these needs will be difficult. The nonprofit has begun outreach efforts, seeking property leads, financial support, and community involvement to secure a long-term location.
If SCRAP is unable to relocate, the impact will be significant. The city will lose one of its last remaining creative reuse centers, educators will have fewer affordable supply options, and thousands of reusable materials will end up in landfills rather than classrooms and studios.
The organization is actively working to secure funding and explore relocation options. With less than 16 months until eviction, the search for a new home is now urgent.
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