Giving Story

Bob’s Discount Furniture

In early 1995, Bob Kaufman of Bob’s Discount Furniture decided to tackle homelessness head on.  With WTNH-TV and the CT Coalition to End Homelessness, he designed a “Kids Helping Kids” Campaign, which linked youth groups and school and religious groups with shelters and transitional living programs that served families with children.  The young people made cookies and sandwiches, collected household goods, and hosted holiday parties at the shelters.

Bob’s Discount Furniture backed up the youth groups’ efforts by donating certificates for $1,500 worth of furniture to 12 families moving from shelters or transitional facilities to housing of their own.  With new furniture  — and the help of their enthusiastic supporters — these families were off to a good start in their new homes.