About Furnishing Hope
"We don't provide housing. We help furnish the places where life happens."
A home is more than the walls around us. It's where families gather, children sleep peacefully, meals are shared, and everyday moments become lasting memories.
Furnishing Hope, a program of Community Pathways, helps qualifying Steele County residents furnish the places they call home by providing essential furniture through the generosity of our community. We believe everyone deserves a comfortable, functional, and welcoming living space, regardless of their financial circumstances.
Originally established through the St. Vincent de Paul Society of Owatonna, Furnishing Hope continues its mission under Community Pathways, giving donated furniture a second life while helping neighbors build spaces filled with comfort, dignity, and hope.
Whether you're looking to donate furniture, volunteer your time, or make a referral, we invite you to visit the Furnishing Hope website to learn more about the program and how you can become part of its mission.
Who We Serve
Furnishing Hope serves qualifying Steele County residents who need essential household furniture but may not have the financial resources to obtain it.
The program is available by referral through Community Pathways and our network of community partners. To qualify, applicants must be moving into a new residence and meet program eligibility requirements.
Our goal is simple: to ensure that every family has access to the basic furnishings that transform a living space into a comfortable place to call home.
How the Program Works
Furnishing Hope is a 100% donation-supported program made possible by generous individuals, local businesses, community organizations, and dedicated volunteers.
Families are referred by Community Pathways staff or partner agencies throughout Steele County. Once approved, they may receive essential furniture at no cost, helping furnish their residence with the items needed for everyday living. (Delivery option available for a $60.00 fee)
Every donated bed, dresser, table, chair, or sofa represents more than furniture. It provides comfort, stability, and a welcoming place where life can unfold.
Referrals
Referrals may be submitted by Community Pathways staff or any human service provider serving Steele County residents, including:
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Social service agencies
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Healthcare providers
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Schools
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Nonprofit organizations
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Faith communities
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Other community partners
If you have questions about eligibility or the referral process, the Furnishing Hope team is happy to help.
Donate Furniture
Your gently used furniture can make a meaningful difference for a neighbor in our community.
We gladly accept quality, gently used furniture in clean, usable condition, including:
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Beds and bed frames
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Dressers
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Dining tables and chairs
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Sofas and loveseats
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Coffee and end tables
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Bookshelves
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Nightstands
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Lamps
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Other essential household furnishings
Furniture donations are accepted by appointment. Pickup services may be available for a fee depending on location and scheduling.
Volunteer
Volunteers are the heart of Furnishing Hope.
Whether you're helping organize the warehouse, picking up donations, delivering furniture, or assisting families during appointments, your time helps create comfortable homes throughout Steele County.
Every hour volunteered helps another family receive the furnishings they need.
Contact Furnishing Hope
Jesse Cowan
Furnishing Hope & Marketplace Coordinator
