Our living spaces grow with us over time—filled with memories, moments…and lots of stuff. Furniture Bank offers a convenient pick-up service for donors who need assistance with furniture removal. In 2022, we successfully redistributed a staggering 141,688 furniture items from our donors’ homes to families and individuals in need across the GTA.
There are numerous reasons why you may wish to part ways with your unwanted furniture, including downsizing, and our goal is to provide a seamless and hassle-free experience. By donating things you no longer need, you’re helping transform empty spaces into warm and welcoming homes.
We had the opportunity to conduct an interview with one of our donors who was downsizing and needed to part ways with a significant amount of furniture.
Our donor's story
Finding Furniture Bank
Chris was in the process of downsizing from a condominium to a senior residence. Seeking solutions to part ways with his surplus furniture, he explored options for its removal from the condo. His options were limited because the condo lacked moving services and prohibited leaving items downstairs.
“I looked up charities online, and ended up choosing Furniture Bank.”
The majority of charities did not respond to his inquiries, and some did not offer pick-up services. Additionally, his real estate agent, who had referred our services to previous clients, also recommended Furniture Bank.
He describes his attempt at removing the furniture himself…
“I tried taking it downstairs, and management told me to take it back upstairs. They will take a piece of furniture but they don't have the space for an apartment full.”
He reached a point of frustration, unsure of how to proceed. With limited time and an abundance of furniture pieces, Chris was in need of assistance. Furniture Bank was able to quickly provide the necessary services.
The service
Chris was very satisfied with the service and found the booking process to be simple. He was pleased that the furniture was being used by a family in need, and also felt a sense of relief knowing he no longer had to worry about it.
He was impressed by Furniture Bank’s efficiency in removing all of the items during a single appointment, and enjoyed the convenience of sitting back and relaxing while they handled the heavy lifting. When asked if he would recommend Furniture Bank’s services to others, he said,
“It would be the first one I would recommend.”
History of the pieces
Chris spoke about his family’s relocation from the UK to Canada. He proceeded, saying, “We came to Canada in 1968, lived in Ottawa and then moved when I was transferred to Toronto for work”. Moving to a new city meant they had to purchase furniture for their new home. Chris explains how some of the items were 20 to 30 years old.
“We bought a lot of this stuff in the nineties.”
With great pride, he shared that the items were in excellent condition, gently used, and emphasized that the dining chairs had recently been reupholstered due to a spill. These items, now ready for a new purpose, will serve multiple families and individuals in need across the GTA.
Donate
If you are downsizing, or just have furniture items that you no longer need, consider donating them to Furniture Bank. You’ll not only find a hassle-free solution for your unwanted pieces, but also find comfort in knowing that your items will be cherished in their new homes. Donate now, and become a homing hero just like Chris.
