‘How furniture donations changed Renee’s life’
Renee was a Furniture Bank client in 2014. Here’s her story:
20 year old Renee arrived at Furniture Bank with a big smile on her face and a ukulele case strapped to her back. She was smiling because she knew that today was going to be a special day. It was the day she would receive the furniture donations she needed to properly furnish her new basement apartment, and set up a comfortable home after not having a stable place to live for 2 years
Renee left her mother’s home at the young age of 18 with nothing more than a futon and her clothes. Before coming to Furniture Bank, Renee lacked the stability of a true home spending the last 2 years of her life living in transition – sleeping on friends couches and eventually checking herself into a youth shelter. This all changed when she secured her very own basement apartment. It was at this point in her life that Furniture Bank and the furniture donations we receive from the community played a critical role for Renee.
When Renee came to Furniture Bank she worked with a volunteer to choose the furniture and housewares that she needed to feel comfortable, secure and live with dignity in her new apartment. She chose a computer desk and a chair to record her music at, an armoire to store her clothes and personal belongings, kitchenwares to prepare meals and art pieces to hang on her walls for inspiration.
When reflecting on the impact furniture donations had on her life, Renee says:
“The furniture I received has changed my life because when I think about the fact that I would have a bare, empty room if not for people who donated furniture, it inspires me to give to everyone as much as I can because that’s what we all need, and that’s what love is – giving.”
Renee continues to pursue her dream of becoming a performing artist in the comfort of her new home where she now records her music. She was so moved by the support she received from Furniture Bank that she recorded a song to express her gratitude.
Want to help more clients like Renee?
It costs Furniture Bank $250 to furnish a home for a family. Make a financial donation today and help more clients like Renee live with the dignity, comfort and stability of a furnished home.
