We are proud to support organizations like Furniture Bank. They have been providing a valuable service to people in need and we encourage you to think of others less fortunate, especially at this time of the year.
For those who are not familiar with Furniture Bank, we thought it would be worthwhile to share their story and needs in their own words.
When did the Furniture Bank get started and what inspired it?
Furniture Bank was brought to life by our Founder, Sister Anne Scheck. Here's what inspired her in her own words: "I received word through a social agency that there was a lady who spoke no English who was basically, desperate for help. When I entered the house, I saw four kids–all under the age of five–sitting around a little 12″ TV. I did a basic inventory of what she had in the kitchen: two plates, two forks, two tiny pots. I knew I couldn’t cook myself dinner with what she had, let alone cook dinner for these four children. It was that moment that I said to myself that this shouldn’t be happening in the city of Toronto." You can read more about Sister Anne here:
Who are the people that Furniture Bank serves?
Our clients include the formerly homeless, women and children escaping abusive situations, and newcomers to Canada & refugees. We work with a roster of 70+ shelters and social service agencies that refer clients to Furniture Bank to receive furniture. Here are some of the high level numbers on our impact in the community.
Are there are any stories of individuals that you have helped that stand out?
Watch and read Martin Train's story here. He now volunteers his time sitting on the Board of Directors at a nonprofit housing organization.
Where are your greatest needs now, especially given the holidays being so close?
In general, we are preparing to expand our whole organization in 2015 to serve even more clients. In order to do so we know we have to raise more capital from individual and corporate donors, expand our pickup service in order to get more furniture donations, and streamline all aspects of our organization by utilizing new technologies.
Beyond furniture donations, how else can people help?
By contributing to our annual appeal here. By volunteering their time with us. They can learn more about volunteering here.
If you would like us to take anything away and you are considering donating some of it to Furniture Bank then please let us know. We'd be happy to get it to them.
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