The initial seed of the Artifac Tree began after the 1970 Malibu fire that destroyed 187 homes.  Donated items from the community were sorted and distributed out of the Old Courthouse building by a group of volunteers coordinated by Honey Coatsworth.  Described as the "Angel of Malibu" Honey, a Malibu resident for 59 years was devoted to helping the homeless and those less fortunate.  The Artifac Tree name came from two sources Honey said,  "Artifac was a catchy name my husband George liked."  The tree part of the name came from Psalms 1:3, "And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither, and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper."  On Sept 4, 1973 "The Artifac Tree" opened its doors near the Main Post Office under the sponsorship of the Malibu Lions Club, and became a successful business operation.  The store's location has moved around since then, and is now nestled under the sycamore trees on Cross Creek Road.  The Artifac Tree is now cared for by the Malibu Community Service Volunteers.  Planted in the heart of Malibu it continues to thrive on local residents' and businesses’ generous donations.

While Honey passed in 2006, her mission to help those less fortunate in the 
community remains.  The Artifac Tree serves the homeless, individuals  affected by disasters, and other community organizations.