Furniture Bank was founded in 1998 by Sister Anne Schenck, CSJ, as another chapter in her long history of helping others in need. Her idea for Furniture Bank evolved from previous work by the Sisters of St. Joseph at the Herron Place Refugee Centre.
For many years, Sister Anne had been collecting furniture for refugees housed at Herron Place. When it closed, she recognized that there would still be people who needed help in re-establishing a home. With the help and guidance of Hugh Morris Q.C. and Ann Manuel, Sister Anne opened the doors to Furniture Bank, and she continues to sit on the volunteer Board of Directors today.
Through the years, Furniture Bank’s operations have expanded from 17,000 square feet at its location on Madison Avenue to a space of 30,000 square feet on Peel Avenue, and now a permanent home at 25 Connell Court. Throughout this time, Furniture Bank has developed major relationships with corporations, foundations and individual funders who continue to provide support with both financial and in-kind donations. As its expansion continues, Furniture Bank is capable of serving more clients annually with greater quality and selection in furnishings and household items.
