From Susan Maritan on behalf of Rich Purnell, Executive Director of New Life Furniture Bank of MA –
Furnishing Lives with Dignity
Medfield, Massachusetts – November 11, 2024: New Life Furniture Bank of MA is kicking off its eleventh annual campaign with an ambitious goal: raising $250,000 by year-end to support its mission of transforming empty spaces into warm, welcoming homes. Since 2013, New Life has provided high-quality, gently-used household essentials at no-cost to individuals and families in transition, including veterans, domestic abuse survivors, refugees, and those affected by fires, floods, and financial hardship. On this Veterans Day, New Life honors the approximately 3,000 veterans it has served over the years, each one a reminder of the vital role the organization plays in building strong, supportive communities. “Real Stories. Real People. Real Impact.” is this year’s theme, reminding supporters of the lasting difference their contributions make.
The demand for New Life’s services has grown tremendously over its eleven years. “In our first year, we served 100 households,” said Rich Purnell, Executive Director of New Life Furniture Bank. This past year, the organization provided over 19,000 pieces of furniture to 750 households, a testament to the persistent need across eastern Massachusetts. “Today, the demand is greater than ever, and this campaign is crucial to our continued growth and ability to serve. We are preparing to expand our services, not just due to increased need, but because the agencies we work with appreciate the efficiency and effectiveness of our model for serving clients.”
Purnell emphasized the importance of creating a supportive, dignified experience for each client. “Our clients have overcome significant challenges to secure housing, and our goal is to help them make it a home,” he said. During their one-hour appointment with our volunteer client hosts, they select their own furniture in a compassionate, low-stress setting. This respect is core to what we do, inspiring so many to find joy in supporting our mission through volunteerism and financial contributions. We at New Life hold firm to the belief that every individual, no matter their circumstances, deserves a table to gather around, a lamp to light their evenings, and a bed to rest in comfort.”
With the unwavering commitment of local volunteers, donors, and supporters, New Life has served nearly 14,000 people throughout its lifetime. The organization is deeply grateful for the community’s generosity and invites those interested to visit the website (www.newlifefb.org) and get involved—whether by contributing to the annual appeal, volunteering, or donating furniture.
“Imagine finally coming out of a homeless shelter with a place to live but no budget to furnish it,” Purnell said. “We’re here to bridge that gap and offer individuals the dignity of a fully-furnished home.”
New Life’s fundraising campaign will run through December 31, and donations may be made at newlifefb.org or by check payable to New Life Furniture Bank of MA, sent to P.O. Box 573, Medfield, MA 02052. As Purnell noted, “With your help, we can continue to bring peace, joy and hope to those rebuilding their lives.”
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