What We Do
Guided by Matthew 25:35, the Epworth Furniture Ministry collects, stores, and distributes furniture and household essentials to families rebuilding their lives. Many clients are starting over with little or nothing. Families are referred by trusted community partners, ensuring that help reaches those who need it most.
Volunteers walk alongside each family through a respectful and choice-based selection experience at the Furniture Mart warehouse. Each visit allows participants to select items that fit their home and needs while preserving dignity and choice.
The ministry began in 2007 when Epworth members helped furnish a Habitat for Humanity home and soon realized the need extended far beyond one family. By May 2008, the Administrative Council had officially blessed the Furniture Ministry, which quickly outgrew its original garage space. God provided a dedicated warehouse—now known as the Furniture Mart—where the ministry continues to thrive and serve families across Northwest Ohio.
Meetings and Schedule
Donation Pick-Ups: Two to four times per month by request.
Organizing Donations: Third Friday of each month at the Furniture Mart.
Selection Saturday: Third Saturday of each month for client selection and distribution.
Goals
- Provide quality, gently used furniture and household items to families in need.
- Offer hope, dignity, and meaningful connection through service and community partnership.
- Encourage Epworth members and friends to serve through volunteering, giving, and prayer.
- Steward donations responsibly to meet real, documented needs.
History
In 2007, while helping build a Habitat for Humanity home, Epworth members learned that the family had no beds. The congregation quickly furnished the bedrooms, and within weeks, additional families were equipped with essentials. In May 2008, Epworth’s Administrative Council officially blessed the new ministry.
As donations grew beyond the Wesley House garage, God provided a dedicated warehouse known as the Furniture Mart. It became a welcoming space where families could select items with dignity and care. From those early acts of generosity, a vibrant ministry was born and continues to change lives today.
Impact
Serving families across Northwest Ohio since 2008:
- 2,197 families served, improving life for 6,116 people.
- 20,881 pieces of furniture distributed.
- Over 75 volunteers contributing over 46,965 hours of service.
2025 Highlights
- 111 families served
- 362 family members supported
- 2,685 volunteer hours
- 1,056 pieces of furniture distributed, plus hundreds of bedding, cookware, lighting, small appliances, and children’s books.
Volunteer Opportunities
The ministry thrives because of dedicated volunteers. There is a place for every skill and schedule.
Pick-Up Crew: Collect donated items and deliver them to the Furniture Mart.
Warehouse Team: Sort, clean, and prepare items for families.
Selection Saturday Team: Welcome clients, assist with selection, pack blessings, and help load vehicles.
Support and Prayer Team: Provide hospitality, administrative help, communications, and prayer support.
To volunteer, please complete a Volunteer Form and email to volunteer@furnitureministry.org or mail to:
Epworth UMC
Attn: Furniture Ministry
4855 W. Central Avenue
Toledo, OH 43615
Leadership
June Latshaw
Interim Chair, Missions & Service
Pastor Liz Trig
Associate Pastor and Staff Liaison to Mission & Service
Holly Bolenbaugh
Furniture Ministry Coordinator
Email: volunteer@furnitureministry.org
Donation Pick-Ups: 567-694-3710
Join This Ministry
Anyone can participate by volunteering, contributing to seasonal collections, or supporting fundraising events. Annual opportunities include blood drives, mission trips, holiday meal support, and community partnerships.