From Susan Maritan –

A Season of Thanks: New Life Helps Neighbors Begin Again and Honors a Co-Founder’s Legacy

A bed for a child. A table for family meals. A comfortable place to sit at the end of the day. This Thanksgiving season, New Life Furniture Bank of Massachusetts is thanking the donors who help provide these everyday essentials and recognizing the determination of neighbors working to rebuild their lives.

New Life’s annual appeal is underway, with an ambitious goal of raising $300,000 to help individuals and families turn empty apartments into welcoming homes. Over the last 12 months, the organization served 816 households, including 164 veteran-led households, and 555 children.

For people emerging from homelessness, escaping domestic violence or starting over after hardship, securing housing is a milestone. But rent and other necessities can leave little money for furnishings. New Life provides donated furniture and household goods at no charge, helping people move forward with dignity and comfort.

This year’s appeal comes during a time of loss for the New Life community. Ronald “Ron” Yates of Medfield, one of the organization’s two co-founders, died on October 16. Ron helped establish New Life in 2013 and remained an active leader throughout his life. His commitment to helping neighbors build stable lives continues through the generosity of donors and the new beginnings of the people New Life serves.

From its start in a small Medfield loft, New Life has grown to serve communities across Massachusetts through its Walpole warehouse. Behind that growth are people who donate and people whose courage and perseverance make their furnished home a story of possibility.

Residents of Medfield, Walpole and the surrounding communities are invited to support this year’s appeal. Gifts may also be made in Ron’s memory, honoring his enduring belief in neighbors helping neighbors.

To donate, visit www.newlifefb.org or mail a contribution to New Life Furniture Bank of MA, P.O. Box 573, Medfield, MA 02052.

During this season of thanks, your generosity can help your neighbor come home with gratitude to a place of possibilities, comfort, and the essentials for a fresh start.