Reasoning that a house without essential furniture isn't a true home, U.S. Representative Andrea Salinas from Oregon has taken a significant step. She introduced House Resolution 10163, the Housing to Homes Act, last week. This act aims to enable the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development to distribute funds to furniture banks, which offer new or gently used free furniture to those in need.

"Transforming Empty Houses into Homes with Federal Funding for Furniture"

Oregon's Largest Furniture Bank - Community Warehouse

Oregon's largest furniture bank, Community Warehouse, has been serving the Portland area for over 20 years. It accepts a wide range of gently used items such as furniture, kitchen supplies, bedding, and home decor. People referred by social service agencies can "shop" at the warehouse, picking out everything from bed frames to can openers. This allows them to transform an empty house or apartment into a comfortable home. For example, a single mother who recently moved out of homelessness was able to select a complete set of furniture for her new apartment. She expressed her gratitude, saying that having a proper bed and table made her feel like she finally had a place to call home.Another family benefited from Community Warehouse when they moved into a new rental. They were able to furnish their entire home with gently used furniture, which not only saved them a lot of money but also gave them a sense of stability. The executive director, Anna Kurnizki, emphasized the importance of this service, stating that furnishing a home is a necessity, not a luxury.

Meeting the High Demand for Furniture

There is a significant need for furniture among Oregonians. Furniture bank leaders estimate that about 300,000 Oregonians, which is about 7% of the state's population, live without most or all of the furniture they need. Community Warehouse furnishes about 220 homes per month, but the demand is closer to 400 families each month. The Salem Alliance Church's furniture bank furnishes about 28 homes monthly, leaving 70 or more families waiting on average. This highlights the urgent need for more federal support.For instance, a couple with children who were recently evicted found hope at the Salem Alliance Church's furniture bank. They were able to get the furniture they needed to set up a functional home for their family. This experience gave them the confidence to start rebuilding their lives.

Salinas' Bill and its Impact

Salinas' bill wouldn't directly send money to any furniture banks but would allow federal HUD grants to be used for delivering and assembling furniture. This is a crucial step in recognizing the vital role furniture banks play. As she saw firsthand when meeting with a man who moved into transitional housing after sleeping in a Salem park, having even a simple dining table can bring a sense of pride and stability.Another example is a veteran who received furniture from a furniture bank. He said that it made him feel like he was finally being taken care of after facing hardships. Salinas hopes that by bringing more attention to furniture banks, more people will be aware of their existence and support their work.In conclusion, Salinas' bill is a significant step towards helping those in need and transforming empty houses into homes. It shows the power of collective effort in addressing a crucial social issue.