Furniture Mission, a nonprofit organization in Fargo, has reached a significant milestone by distributing its 50,000th piece of furniture, positively impacting nearly 4,000 individuals in the Fargo-Moorhead area. Since its inception in 2019, the organization has provided over $1 million worth of essential furniture items, including beds, chairs, tables, and couches, to those facing crises and starting anew.
The need for such services has become increasingly apparent, as many clients turn to Furniture Mission following personal hardships such as natural disasters, domestic violence, or job loss. As clients are referred by local agencies, the organization steps in to help families transform their spaces into homes. “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,” said Jordan McCormick, executive director of Furniture Mission.
Community Impact and Volunteer Efforts
The emotional stories shared by recipients highlight the essential role Furniture Mission plays in the community. “The stories you hear are heartbreaking. We have not walked the walk or talked the talk of people who come in here,” stated Evert Van Engelenhoven, a longstanding board member. Volunteers are the backbone of the organization, dedicating their time to assist families in need.
Sue Uhlir and her husband, Dewey, are among those actively involved. Sue helps families select the furniture they require, while Dewey contributes to the organization’s repair shop. “We never know what the impact we will make, and it could be huge and it could be taking them to the next level,” Dewey remarked. Sue added, “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.'”
Expansion and Future Goals
The organization has recently expanded its facilities, adding an additional 4,000 square feet of warehouse space at its location on 2600 Third Ave. N., Fargo. This expansion will enhance operational efficiency, allowing Furniture Mission to serve families more effectively. “I think it will allow us to do what we do, faster and better. And our goal is to find out how this impacts families,” McCormick explained.
With the increase in space, Furniture Mission is also seeking more volunteers to assist with sorting and repairing donated items. The organization relies heavily on community support, receiving half of its funding from the upcoming Giving Hearts Day. For those interested in volunteering or making financial contributions, further information is available at https://www.furnituremissionrrv.org.
The dedication of Furniture Mission and its volunteers exemplifies the power of community in transforming lives, providing essential support to those in need during challenging times.
