Every now and again I have to put down the magazines....the computer...the thoughts of "what can I change now" and "how can I make this room better" and focus on something that really matters.
I was having dinner with my friend Stephanie the other night and she has just taken a new job at The Furniture Bank as the Community Resource Manager.
The Furniture Bank? What is that? I'm glad you asked!
It was started in 1988 and their mission is to recycle used furniture from individuals and companies and give it to people moving out of homelessness, fleeing domestic violence and living with AIDS/HIV.
Helping over 3000 people a year [in metro Atlanta] The Furniture Bank is the only agency in metro Atlanta whose mission is to provide free furniture to people in need.
As you know in the past I have worked with Room Service helping to change a few lives.
Here are a few shots from The United Methodist Children's Home
How did I do this you ask? Donations from many people including Design Indulgence readers!
And my room at The Nicholas House
Again with the help of friends, family and readers!
So....I stopped by the other day for a tour of The Furniture Bank and their operations.
When someone gets referred it usually means that they have [with help] transitioned to housing, paid a security deposit and first and last months rent.
Here is the catch...they have nothing. Look around your home right now.....can you imagine if it was empty and you were living there? I mean not to be funny but Patches might be a little upset.
She owns this couch:)
When someone comes in they are in need of the basics.....a sofa, kitchen table, a couple of chairs, beds, and a kitchen kit. Sheets and towels would be nice also.
It was Wednesday when I went and they only had one loveseat....and a few chairs. Insert really sad face:(.
She said sometimes they set up a room to show their "customers" how it could look.
Duh...there was smoke coming out my ears to get going....you can guess?
Make it look like home baby. I was struggling to find things....
I think you know where I am going with this.
If you have any of those things especially a sofa or dresser they will pick it up!
And....they have a link where you can make a donation. Hey if I have 4000 readers and everyone donates 20.00-25.00 think about it!
OK....here is the deal. If you go to the link and donate where it says "this donation is in tribute of" put Design Indulgence.
They will keep track for me and I will draw a name.....cause I am putting together something good for the winner. AND....if you donate a sofa you are eligible also so just let me know.
Promise. You can start today and I will announce the giveaway next week.
Think about it y'all. 3.5 million folks are homeless and more than 1 million are children.
Reasons for homelessness can be job loss, divorce, mental illness, medical bills and domestic violence.
I was a victim of domestic violence in my first marriage and lucky for me I had family for support.
Thanks for listening y'all....I really appreciate it. Share this post especially if you are local to help get the word out about this great charity.
Help me prove that DI has the best followers in blogland:)
Shapleading
25 comments
I love your unselfishness and links to charities Sherry. You are a passionate and giving person which just adds to your list of charming qualities! I didn't know about your past which is no doubt a huge reason why you want to help others. God love you friend! and best of luck with getting donations! Im heading over now. Hugs to you and your pooch. xo Nancy
What an amazing organization! Makes me think about starting something like that where I live! Thanks for sharing.
You are amazing, Sherry. Thank you for sharing a being so amazing and transparent about your past, it's just another reason to love ya, woman ;-) I will definitely head over and donate! xo-Sara
Sherri, I am so glad you posted about this as we have a loveseat in EXCELLENT condition we have been trying to give to anyone! We would love to donate it. I will make a phone call Monday. Thanks again!!
Ok, just clicked on the link you provided. Requesting a pick up could not be easier. Thanks again for posting.
Thank you, Sherry, for sharing this with us. I have financially struggled in the past and I understand what it means to be living by the grace of others. I'd be happy to be part of it. xx
What a great idea! They will be lucky to have your skills and drive!
What a great organization...their very lucky to have you and you will be blessed by what they will give to you...by giving to others...
Too bad I live in Canada, I have a basement full of good furniture. Thanks for keeping it real Sherry, we forget how lucky we are sometimes. I will head over & make a donation.
Barb
I love it when the blogs that I follow chose to highlight charities and good causes. I don't donate every single time but I do more often than not and like many others out there, I wouldn't have unless someone else highlighted the need. Thanks for trying to help me be a decent human.
Very cool, Sherry. Just donated. My daughter and I volunteered in a homeless shelter that transitioned families out (I decorated the family room and we babysat)...people down on their luck...could happen to any of us. I saw one of my clients working at Target and she was so happy! A new life.
Well done.
You got my support and I doubled it just incase! Great cause your a wonderful lady!!
what a great organization! Great luck!
Thanks for sharing your gifts with others and giving your readers the opportunity to participate in supporting this worthwhile cause!
Sherry- let me see what Currey and Co can do. They donate all the time!
I'll get working on it.
Thank you for highlighting The Furniture Bank. We used them when we downsized in June. So easy, made my appointment online and a small donation ($20) and voila, 4 nice guys and truck showed up on time and took my heavy furniture away to its next family.
Sounds like a wonderful organization. I know we have some pillows we would love to donate! I will email you on Monday.
Udos to you Shsti for gettingbthe word out! I wish I were vloser I would love to help!
Something new we learn of you! I have such a passion for this, as well. Moved from Boston a few years ago, I was in charge of transitioning families into housing through the Junior League of Worcester. Being an interior designer myself, I understand wanting to create a space that feels pulled together. It is very much a challenge keeping the 'supplies' abundant enough to do this. How wonderful of you to reach out on your blog to raise awareness and ask for help. When it comes down to it, we are really all here for one another. Bless you for being all you are, Sherry.
Judy G.
Can anyone verify the site is secure. I live in Canada, I'm always hesitant putting credit card info. on a site I've never used previously. Thanks.
Hi Barbara (Canada)
Yes, It is shown to be a secure site. I know what you mean - can't be too safe.
Deb
Hi Sherry,
I am very happy to find out about this organization. Thanks very much for sharing.
Just made a small donation based on how many years I was with my first husband. Like you I had family for support (and chairs!) when I left. Good cause!!
Thank you Debbie, appreciate the help.
Barb (Canada)
I'm just now seeing this... and will go over now and donate. What a perfect way to use your talent to help others, and just think how awesome it is to have your own home that is pretty and in order...
Cindy
Post a Comment