“The furniture made our home look beautiful”
“I’m an immigrant and I love that I’m helping out other immigrants settle in Ottawa.” - Arao Claudio
***
Each month, we share stories of amazing people connected to Matthew House Ottawa. Enjoy!
***
What is your name?
Arao
Have you always lived in Ottawa?
No, I’m originally from Angola.
Did you have any furniture when you were referred to Matthew House Ottawa’s furniture bank?
No.
What furniture items did you need the most from the furniture bank?
We needed beds, mattresses, and living room furniture. When we first moved to Ottawa, we were sitting on the floor and that reminded me of where I came from. As soon as I walked into the furniture bank, the volunteers were able to help me select some very good furniture.
We were supposed to have the furniture delivered curbside but only my brother and I were home because my Dad had to work. The truck crew volunteered to help us bring the items into our home. The furniture made our home look beautiful. I was so grateful for the help provided by all the volunteers.
When did you start working part-time on the furniture bank truck crew?
I started volunteering in the furniture bank warehouse in November 2019. I was encouraged to volunteer by my uncle who was a former client and volunteer at the furniture bank. In January 2020, I was hired part-time to work on the truck crew.
What are some of your responsibilities on the truck crew?
As part of the truck crew, I make sure that the furniture doesn’t get damaged when we move the items out of the warehouse and transport it to the client’s home. We take care of the client’s furniture because we are changing their life when the furniture is delivered to their home.
What do you like about your job?
I like working with the truck crew. They are friendly and always helping each other out. This job has changed my life. Also, I like the job because I get to drive around Ottawa. It’s a good way to learn about the city.
Can you share a story that demonstrates the positive experience you’ve had on the truck crew?
There are many times when the clients see the truck crew as professional movers and they are very appreciative of us when we deliver their furniture. I’m an immigrant and I love that I’m helping out other immigrants settle in Ottawa. I’m not doing this job for the money. I’m doing it because I like helping people.
By Barb Koppe. Interview has been edited for clarity.
***
Wanna help? Here is how you can change lives through Matthew House Ottawa:
Donations: you can give online here or cheques can be mailed to 380 Centrepointe Drive, Ottawa ON K2G 6A1.
Become a monthly donor: consider setting up a monthly donation. The consistent support from our monthly donors has been a HUGE help during this time, and we would encourage you to give in this way if you are able. You can set up a monthly donation here – just click “donate monthly” tab at the top of the page.
Refugee Services: If you want to support our refugee services program, please be in touch with Doreen at dkatto@matthewhouseottawa.org. We welcome donations of grocery cards (or groceries and frozen meals) to help feed the refugees we have welcomed at the house, though we ask that you please contact Doreen in advance to make arrangements.
Furniture Bank: If you have gently-used furniture you no longer need, please give us a call at 613-591-6681 to discuss options for a safe pick up. And please spread the word among your networks as well. [Please note that our furniture warehouse and showroom will not be open to the public for the duration of the pandemic, so drop-offs of donated items are NOT being accepted at this time. Please call furniture bank at 613-591-6681 if you have any questions.]
Pray: for past, present and future residents and furniture bank clients
Since 2010, Matthew House Ottawa has welcomed hundreds of refugee claimants, and provided quality used furniture to about 5000 families in need. We have done this as a large, dedicated team of volunteers and a small handful of employees, with a lot of passion and commitment. We invite you to join us!