ELBCH has a mission to help those in need - emerging from homelessness or a similar life transition. When moving into new living quarters, the goal is to transform empty space into living space, to help our clients create a home using donated furniture and household goods through a process that grants individuality, dignity, and choice to each client.
 
ELBCH responds to requests for assistance from several charitable organizations including Catholic Community Services and St. Vincent de Paul conferences. Whether providing a replacement recliner or furnishing an entire apartment, our aim is to respond quickly by finding and delivering the items to fill the need.
 
To continue this work, ELBCH is seeking: volunteers including those interested in leading the ministry into the future, financial support, item donations of lightly used furniture and household goods, and warehouse space.
 
Volunteers: ELBCH is looking for energetic volunteers to help with furniture pickup & delivery. Personal vehicles and trucks are used. ELBCH is also a seeking volunteers to provide new energy and fresh ideas to help lead ELBCH to become a thriving and sustainable ministry.
Financial Support: Financial donations (c/o St. Francis of Assisi Parish) will help to pay the rent and expenses for our small furniture warehouse, as well as the monthly meal that we prepare for the Junction Point shelter. Online donations may be made via the St. Francis of Assisi Parish web site, noting “ELBCH” when specifying the purpose of the donation. Financial donations may also be dropped off at the Parish Office.
Warehouse Space: ELBCH is looking for a new location for our furniture warehouse, approximately 2,000 square feet. Additional space will be required to support an expansion of our services.
Donations: Donations of furniture and household goods are needed. ELBCH accepts lightly used furniture, small appliances, kitchenware, and other household items, including beds and clean bedding (no tears or stains). There are two rules of thumb: “What would I need?” If I was moving into an empty studio or 1-bedroom apartment, as well as “Is it in good enough condition that I would consider giving it to a friend or a family member?” Donated items may be dropped off or picked up by prior arrangement.
 
Anyone interested in this group can contact Linda King in the Parish office and she'll connect them with Mark Smith.