COLUMBUS, Ohio — Furnishing a home can be extremely expensive, but thanks to nonprofit organizations like the Furniture Bank of Central Ohio, it's becoming a lot more accessible for those in need.

Turning empty houses into homes is the goal of the Furniture Bank of Central Ohio. As the city of Columbus grows, so does the need for resources like furniture. 

“Unfortunately, we had our largest year of service ever last year. In 2023, we served over 3,700 families here in central Ohio and we just continue to see that need go up. That was a 10% increase from the year before and a 38% increase the year before that,” said Phil Washburn, the CEO of the Furniture Bank of Central Ohio. 

The furniture bank not only accepts donated furniture but also builds its own in its wood shop. A concept that is uncommon for most furniture banks who are solely reliant on donations. 

“Last year we produced over 2,500 pieces of furniture and it was 100% with volunteers. And so that’s a great program that we offer that helps us to make sure that every family has the furniture they need,” said Washburn. 

One of the volunteers is Pete Pappas. He has been volunteering at the furniture bank for seven years. But while he started doing it for selfish reasons, he now realizes the impact he and the other volunteers have on those who benefit the most.

“After retiring, I needed something to keep me busy,” said Pappas. “It’s sad to see the people who are homeless and unable to afford furniture so we can give to them things that help them set up a home.”

From beds, to tables, to dressers and everything in between, the Furniture Bank of Central Ohio is fully equipped to furnish homes for anyone in need. If you want to donate any of your furniture to the furniture bank, you can visit furniturebankcoh.org to schedule a pickup or drop off.