A new effort in the Lafayette area aims at meeting the basic needs of those who are starting over.
The Furniture Bank offers free items to people who lost their possessions in a fire, those who are leaving homelessness or making another transition.
It’s run by First United Methodist Church and involves the City of Lafayette’s Weed and Seed Program and other service organizations. Those seeking furniture will be referred from the partner agencies.
Jennifer Layton with Lafayette Transitional Housing says the Furniture Bank solves the problem her staff had with finding acceptable, used items. She says the co-op's website offers pictures and dimensions for clients to select the items they want.
Jeanne Norberg with First Methodist says the groups are holding a furniture drive Saturday and not many things will be turned away.
"We're not looking for antiques. We're looking for furniture to fill basic needs - couches, tables, dressers, beds."
Adam Murphy with Lafayette’s Weed and Seed program says about a dozen agencies are involved now.
"And there's more room at the table. If you run a service agency or work at one and think you should be involved with this, contact us. We'd love to have you."
The cooperative is holding a furniture drive Saturday, October 27 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Furniture can be dropped off at the parking lot at the corner of Cincinnati and 3rd streets in Lafayette. Donors who need items picked up can make arrangements by emailing furniture@fumcwl.org by Friday evening or by calling 765-491-1460 on Saturday.
More information about the Furniture Bank is HERE.