What is Resuscitated Thrift, and who does it help? ‘There was just no safety net’

A new small business has opened up in Clovis across from Loma Vista Marketplace: Resuscitated Thrift, owned and operated by Kimberly Damico.

Resuscitated Thrift first opened two years ago on Bullard Ave. The Clovis store is her second location.

The stores work in tandem with Damico’s nonprofit, Paramedic Resilience Society. She started the nonprofit after a 35-year career in EMS, mostly in the private sector.

Damico said Paramedic Resilience Society’s charitable activities include a scholarship program for those pursuing EMS training, as well as financial assistance for members of the EMS community who are in need due to circumstances such as injuries.

“I started the nonprofit ‘cause when I was even working on the ambulance, my coworkers would have catastrophic injury or illness, or unfortunate death, and there was just no safety net to help,” Damico said.

Early in her EMS career, Damico considered quitting because she struggled to afford training. When she received a grant from the Central California EMS Agency, she was able to pursue education that allowed her to go from EMT 2 to paramedic. Receiving help from others throughout her career inspired Damico to pay it forward by founding Paramedic Resilience Society.

“I can’t give a lot, especially right now, but if I can, you know, maybe pay somebody’s electric bill or ... get them a couple hundred dollars worth of groceries ... I feel like it’s worth it. Just because it’s small right now, doesn’t mean that it’s not viable and appreciated,” Damico said.

The Clovis store is situated next to Loma Vista Marketplace. Damico has lived in the area for over 20 years, and when the shopping center came to fruition in recent years, she felt it was an opportunity to bring a small business to a familiar area.

Loma Vista Marketplace is populated with fast food selections and large chains such as Ulta Beauty and Five Below. Resuscitated Thrift stands out as an independent retailer in the area.

“There’s just not that small town hub kind of thing over there, which, you know, I figure might be a benefit for me,” Damico said.

Resuscitated Thrift does not currently have the budget to support major advertisements or a lavish grand opening. Damico’s hope is that social media will keep the stores afloat.

The Fresno store has already built a loyal, consistent customer base, including one young man Damico is encouraging to pursue becoming an EMT. Her hope is that the Clovis store will be received with the same support.

Local patrons can support Resuscitated Thrift and Paramedic Resilience Society by donating to or purchasing from the thrift store.

This story was originally published June 16, 2026 at 11:13 AM.