Futon Association International Announces Support of Furniture Industry’s Charitable Effort

Furniture World Magazine

The Futon Association International (FAI) announced its endorsement of “Help 1 Up,” the furniture industry’s unified charitable effort. Facilitated by the National Furniture Bank Association (NFBA), the program is designed to provide basic home furnishings to women and children escaping domestic violence, families below the poverty line, victims of natural disasters, and others requiring emergency assistance. Proceeds from the Help 1 Up program will directly benefit non-profit furniture banks across the country, raise consumer awareness of furniture banks, and seed new furniture banks in underserved areas. A “furniture bank” is a non-profit organization which collects unwanted used furniture and provides it to those who need it. Brian Donohoo, president of the Futon Association International, said the Help 1 Up program is a natural fit for the FAI. “When I learned how many kids in America are sleeping on the floor, and that FAI can truly make a difference, agreeing to participate was an easy decision to make. The program is a win-win for everybody involved.” The Help 1 Up program encourages consumers to shop at participating retailers and add 1% to their next furniture purchase. The NFBA will reach consumers through a broadcast and print advertisement campaign, slated for production by the end of 2004. Each year tens of thousands of people receive donated beds, couches, kitchen tables, dressers, dishes, and utensils from furniture banks. According to a survey of furniture bank operators conducted in July 2004, children represent the largest percentage of their service base. “The NFBA is very pleased to have the endorsement of the Futon Association International,” said Don Lawrence, vice president of communications for the NFBA. “In doing so, the 350 retailers and manufacturers of the FAI have demonstrated they are good corporate citizens. I applaud their willingness to help the less fortunate members of the communities in which they do business.” Ted Swisher, vice president of U.S. Affiliates for Habitat for Humanity International said that "the NFBA is filling a vital role of facilitating furniture bank programs throughout the country to help people in need with the basics for their new living quarters. We are excited about working with them to truly make a house a home a reality for the disadvantaged of this country." About the Futon Association International (FAI): The Futon Association International is a non-profit trade association made up of retailers, manufacturers, suppliers and others involved in the futon and specialty sleep industry. About the National Furniture Bank Association (NFBA): The NFBA is the non-profit affiliation of furniture banks. The organization’s mission is to create comfortable home environments by providing furnishings to those in need.   Contact Information: brian@futon.org • http://www.futon.org