No matter where you call home, there is nearly infinite opportunity in our local communities to help out, give back, and support worthy causes. As a furniture company, we have a unique ability to share our products and resources with others in need—whether halfway across the country in Austin or in the very cities and neighborhoods in which we work.

With offices In Jacksonville, Fl., we were thrilled to partner with the Jacksonville Area Sexual Minority Youth Network (JASMYN) to provide furniture to outfit its new Youth Safety Net Resource Center, the third building on the organization’s campus in Jacksonville’s Riverside neighborhood.

A completely renovated historic home, the Youth Safety Net Resource Center was redesigned to meet the needs of young people experiencing homelessness in Jacksonville, an overwhelming majority of whom identify as LGBTQ.

Furniture from Industry West’s catalog brings a contemporary style and homey comfort to a space that is often host to youth who may be living on the streets or coming in directly from the hospital or an unwelcoming home environment. Though the center doesn’t provide overnight shelter, it acts as a front door and warm welcome for young people experiencing homelessness in Jacksonville- whether that’s through one-on-one counseling, use of the center’s shower and laundry facilities, or a warm meal served by a friendly face.

Our team worked with JASMYN representatives to select pieces that are durable, yet bring a comfortable, serene, and modern feel to the different spaces within the Jacksonville center.

“It has changed our lives and the way we work coming into this space,” said Abbie George, Care Coordinator at JASMYN. “It’s hard to convey the impact this has on our team and the young people we serve.”

This partnership was brought about by a mutual friendship between members of the Industry West and JASMYN teams a few years ago, and it has been a rewarding process for our team to see the space come to life over the past few months.

“The way this space looks says to young people that they are important and valued,” said Cindy Watson, JASMYN’s CEO. “And that people care about them, that they are able to feel welcome here.”