Janith’s New Beginning: From Bare Floors to a Warm Home

Janith Bryson was introduced to the Furniture Bank at a very difficult time in her life. She receives disability, which made her unable to work and was living with family members before finding a new apartment of her own.

Janith was thrilled to find a senior living facility that she could afford – a place of her own! Living on a fixed income meant that she could not afford furniture while still paying for rent, groceries, and other basic living expenses.

She did not have a sofa, chairs, a dining table, or other basics, which forced her to live much of her life on the floor. She already suffered from anxiety and living this way began to affect her mental health.

“I was embarrassed to have visitors because I was sitting on the floor before receiving help from the Furniture Bank. It was miserable!” says Jan.

The Furniture Bank provided Janith with the ability to feel comfortable in her own home… and the dignity that comes with the ability to invite others into it. She feels less anxious and is ready to move forward with her life.

“I am enjoying my furniture and now feel happy to have visitors,” says Janith. “It is hard when you are doing it by yourself. The Furniture Bank helped me during a very difficult time. My house is now a home, and I am so grateful.”

Janith was one of the individuals the Furniture Bank helped in 2022, providing 18,500 items valued at more than $1 million. She received a $250 Meijer gift card, with which she can put food on the table and other basic needs.