After experiencing homelessness as a teenager, Toni sought refuge at a YWCA shelter, a partner agency of Furniture Bank. After transitioning out of the shelter and securing her own apartment, Toni was referred to Furniture Bank to come select furniture from our showroom floor.

“When I arrived at Furniture Bank and was given the chance to choose my furniture, it was like I was living out my HGTV fantasy of decorating my new home,” Toni says. “That idea alone was enough to give me the stability I needed. It helped address the mental anguish and anxiety I had with being poor and homeless.”

Over the next few years, Toni started volunteering, pursued an undergraduate degree at York University, and then got a job working at an arts based organization mentoring youth – all achievements that would have been very difficult to accomplish without the comfort and security of a furnished home.

Toni is now pursuing her Masters in Education at Harvard University. She recently raised over $50,000 for her tuition and living expenses by putting together a compelling crowdfunding campaign. Toni has since reconnected with Furniture Bank to donate her old furniture before her big move.

*Names have been changed to protect client privacy*

Want to help more clients like Toni?

It costs Furniture Bank $250 to furnish a home for a family. Make a financial donation today and help more clients like Toni emerge from homelessness and live with the dignity, comfort and stability of a furnished home.