In a remarkable achievement, Furniture Mission has distributed its 50,000th piece of furniture, providing vital support to individuals and families in the Fargo-Moorhead area. Over the past six years, the nonprofit has offered more than $1 million worth of essential items like beds, chairs, tables, and couches, directly benefiting nearly 4,000 people facing challenging circumstances.
Furniture Mission, established in 2019, serves as a crucial resource for those starting anew due to various crises, including natural disasters, domestic violence, recent prison releases, or sudden job loss. Individuals referred to the organization by local agencies are welcomed to select furniture that transforms their living spaces into homes.
Impact and Community Support
Executive Director Jordan McCormick highlighted the significance of the milestone, stating, “I think it tells us that we are doing the right thing for the right reason and at the right time. It also tells us there is a gap in services when it comes to access to furniture.” This sentiment reflects the urgent need for support in the community.
Longtime board member Evert Van Engelenhoven echoed the emotional weight of the stories shared by clients. He remarked, “The stories you hear are heartbreaking. We have not walked the walk or talked the talk of people who come in here.” Such reflections underscore the mission’s importance in providing not just furniture, but also dignity and a sense of stability.
The organization relies heavily on volunteers, who dedicate their time to help families in need. Sue Uhlir, a volunteer, noted the excitement of families receiving their furniture, saying, “People are so grateful, and it is so exciting. I hear some talk about, ‘My kids are going to be so happy when they come home from school and they have their own bed.'” Her husband, Dewey Uhlir, contributes by working in the furniture repair shop, emphasizing the potential impact of their efforts.
Expanded Facilities and Future Goals
Recently, Furniture Mission expanded its facilities, adding an additional 4,000 square feet of space at their location on 2600 Third Ave. N., Fargo. This expansion allows for increased warehouse capacity, enabling the organization to store more products and improve the client experience as they select their items.
McCormick expressed optimism about these developments, stating, “I think it will allow us to do what we do, faster and better. Our goal is to find out how this impacts families.” The organization is actively seeking more volunteers to assist in sorting and repairing donated furniture, aiming to enhance their life-changing mission.
Financial support is also crucial for the sustainability of Furniture Mission. Approximately half of their funding comes from the upcoming Giving Hearts Day, an event that encourages community giving. For more information on volunteering or financial contributions, interested individuals can visit Furniture Mission’s website.
