WHAT WE DOOur Approach
One thing that sets our services apart is our personal touch. We believe that meeting with our clients in their home and interacting directly with them about their needs and preferences conveys respect and helps to reinforce a sense of self-worth that many are lacking. When was the last time they were asked what they like?
Within a few days of the visit, we deliver a Starter Kit, including:
- Brand new, good quality mattresses, box springs and frames
- Temporary folding table and chairs
- New bedding and towels
- Basic kitchenware and dinnerware
This is to keep them going until the home can be fully furnished/equipped about three weeks later.
During those three weeks, we put the word out to the community about exactly what is needed for each individual/family we’ll be helping. Donors sign up to contribute gently used furniture and household items. Some make cash donations to help with the purchase of new beds and any critical items that aren’t donated, as well as to cover the cost of transporting furniture.
“It’s not just about the furniture. It’s about the way they went about doing it that showed that they had really listened to me and that they cared a lot about making the place mine.”
Welcoming Day Arrives
We usually furnish four homes on our regular "Welcoming" days
MORNING
Donors drop off smaller items at drop off point
Volunteers check them in and package them up
Meanwhile, movers pick up large items
MIDDAY
Items are sorted by apartment and loaded into trucks
AFTERNOON
Clients are asked to leave their apartments
Movers move furniture in. Volunteers set everything up: hang pictures, make beds with new comforters, recycle boxes, etc.
Residents are asked to return to their “new” home, where everything is in place. They can just relax and enjoy their new home
“It feels so good to help someone in the initial transition from homelessness to having a home. Being able to help make a difference in their lives is very rewarding.”