Richmond floral boutique owner aids homeless with Valentine’s pop-up shop

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The owner of the floral boutique, Flowers by Maryjane, is sharing the love with those who need it most this Valentine's Day.

Dozens stopped by the "pop-up" flower shop on Valentine's Day from the floral boutique, Flowers by Maryjane, on Jefferson Avenue in Church Hill.

During her pop-up shop, 30% of the proceeds went toward purchasing blankets, jackets, handwarmers and sleeping bags for the unhoused in Richmond.

Since opening her business six years ago, Maryjane has funneled hundreds of dollars to help those on the street with items that they may want and need.

Couchsurfing, living in and out of cars and visiting homeless shelters, Maryjane herself had been unhoused in her childhood and young adulthood.

She has worried for those on the street and said she can relate to them.

"I have made different relationships with some people that currently live on the street, and I'd like to help out, especially in winter," Maryjane said. "This is something that I do regardless of having a flower shop or not, but I felt like with everything that's happening in America, I personally needed to do something with a positive impact."

Her acts of kindness go a long way, and those who are unhoused have utilized what is offered.

"I think there's so many things that you could learn about humility and empathy and not judging others," Maryjane said.

She told our 8News team that other similar events happened around different holidays.

Maryjane is accepting donations of clothes, jacket and other warm items for those who wish to help.

Visit her Facebook page for more information.