Dear Glenda,

Working on the front lines of homelessness, we understand exactly what it means to have a home. Having a home is much more than having a house. A home is a place of warmth, and belonging. It provides a sanctuary from the stresses of the day. Furniture and furnishings, the manner in which we decorate, all provide a sense of personal identity-our signature.

Most of our residents come to us with few or no belongings, transitioning out of homelessness and living without life’s necessities. Our goal is to help families begin anew with dignity and hope and the Community Warehouse Project plays a vital role. Beyond this, shopping for furniture connects us on a human level and sometimes gives us a glimpse deep into the lives of our families.

This story illustrates: A young couple, with two small children, were moving from our shelter into their very first apartment. They were carefully walking through the Warehouse, exploring furniture that reflected themselves and their style. Natalie, the mother focused in on what we all considered to be a hideous lamp. It was truly from the 1950’s, an odd color and did not match the other items they had chosen. Her husband, Connor, tried desperately to convince her that they did not want this lamp. We also chimed in thinking it may be a little much with 2 small children running about. With tears in her eyes, Natalie turned to us full of emotion and told us that the lamp reminded her of her grandmother. We were silent. What could we say? The memories and emotions that a simple lamp evoked for her were beyond measure. Thank you for going above and beyond to provide dignity and hope to those most vulnerable in our community-thank you for helping families create a home.

Sincerely,

Jennifer Lopez

Executive Director