As we look back on 2023, Find is excited about the progress being made in our goal to support the Housing First program in Edmonton and, ultimately, end homelessness as a community. Working alongside the tireless efforts of Housing First agencies, Find has been able to support those moving out of homelessness with furniture and home goods as a way of offering a more comprehensive and holistic approach to addressing homelessness. The goal is to create a stable and comfortable living environment for those in need exiting homelessness through Housing First. 

Why Furnish Homes?

Research has shown that stable housing is a crucial first step in breaking the cycle of homelessness. However, simply providing a roof over someone's head is not enough. By offering furnishings, we can ensure that individuals and families moving out of homelessness have access to the basic necessities and comforts that many of us take for granted. This includes essential furniture and household items that can make a house feel like a HOME!

The Impact of Furnishing A Home

Here are some key benefits to offering essential  home furnishings:

1. Dignity and Empowerment

Having a furnished home restores a sense of dignity and self-worth to individuals who have often felt marginalized and forgotten. It gives them a space they can call their own, where they can feel safe and secure.

2. Improved Mental and Physical Health

A comfortable and stable living environment plays a crucial role in improving mental and physical health. Furnished homes provide a sanctuary where individuals can relax, rejuvenate, and focus on their well-being.

3. Enhanced Social Integration

Living in a furnished home allows individuals to invite friends, family, and support networks into their space. This fosters social connections and helps combat the isolation that often accompanies homelessness.

4. Increased Employment Opportunities

Having a furnished home provides a solid foundation for individuals to seek and maintain employment. It eliminates the barriers that come with not having a stable address, enabling them to secure job opportunities and work towards financial independence.

Our Commitment to Sustainability

As part of our commitment to sustainability, Find ensures that the donated furniture and household items provided to participants are clean and in good, quality condition. We prioritize eco-friendly materials and work with local suppliers who share our values.

2023

Find has had a very successful year working alongside the hardworking Housing First agencies to supply furniture and home goods to our most vulnerable neighbors in the Housing First program. We are so grateful to the agencies and Housing First workers who are dedicated to finding appropriate, safe and supportive housing options for those in the program. The community commitment to ending homelessness is inspiring and we take that inspiration with us each day in the work we do.

We are thrilled to let you know that in 2023, Find was able to support 2348 individuals move out of homelessness into 1480 homes furnished with community donations!

While we are so excited to share this update, we know that we still have so much more to do. With over 3,000 people on the By Names List, and over 600 of those people who are currently unsheltered, we know that 2024 will be an important time for us to focus our efforts and ramp up the services we offer in order to support as many people as possible as they transition out of homelessness. 

We can't do our work without your support, Edmonton! 

By offering a comprehensive solution that addresses both the immediate need for shelter and the long-term goal of stability, we, as a community, are paving the way for a brighter future for individuals experiencing homelessness. Together, let's create a society where everyone has a place to call HOME!

How You Can Help

While we are proud of the progress we have made, there is still much work to be done. If you are passionate about supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and want to make a difference, there are several ways you can help:

1. Donate: Consider donating furniture, household items, or funds to support the Housing First program. Your contribution will make a significant impact on someone's life.

2. Shop: every purchase made through the Find Retail + Donation Centre and the Find Online Boutique benefits those transitioning out of homelessness through the Housing First program.

3. Spread the Word: Help us raise awareness about the Housing First program, the work of Homeward Trust in our community and the importance of furnishing homes for those in need. Share this post or our social media updates with your friends, family, and colleagues.

We thank you for choosing to be part of the solution to ending homelessness! Together, we will end homelessness!