Summer may be almost here, but if you’re still working your way through spring cleaning (I am!) and are looking to get rid of furniture or other household goods, here is an excellent option sent in by Southborough resident Carol Turner:
Furnishing Options, a spin-off of Marlborough-based Employment Options, is in need of furniture donations. With many members of Metrowest communities waiting for quality furniture to help them furnish their homes and places of residence, the need is growing rapidly.
In December, 2009, Furnishing Options launched with great support of the local community. With donations coming in and high profile support from all levels of government, the showroom at 66 Mechanic Street in Marlboro became full of furniture ready to help those in need. The organization has helped countless individuals since that time and the need to replace inventory is greater than ever.
Furnishing Options’ mission is to provide a variety of household items to individuals in need, low income families or individuals recovering from mental illness or other disabilities. Donations accepted may include clean sofas, tables, chairs, kitchen items such as pots and pans and other items such as lamps, and good clean rugs – all in good working order – anything is welcome that can make a house into a home for people that may be struggling. By providing these items and other support, individuals and their families can live a more fulfilling life and be known as a productive member of their community.
Furnishing Options also serves as a social enterprise. The organization additionally offers a training site for youth and adults with disabilities to develop leadership and employment skills including customer service, retail merchandising and inventory control.
Volunteers are needed to donate goods, collect and drop off furnishings at the Marlboro storefront, deliver goods to the destination homes, coordinate donations and help with fundraisers. People looking to donate, volunteer, or refer someone in need can contact the organization directly at 508-485-5051 x245; Southborough Coordinator, Carol Turner, can be reached at 508-481-9496.
You can learn more — including what Furnishing Options takes and what they don’t — on their website.
(Photo posted on flickr by Allan Siew Official)