Mayor Ewing Collaborates with Furniture Project to Aid City View Residents

A Community Effort to Help Families Find Comfort

In Omaha, a nonprofit organization is making a significant difference in the lives of families who have been displaced from their homes. The Furniture Project, led by founder Drew Gerken, has stepped in to ensure that these individuals can find comfort and stability in their new living situations. Their work has not only provided essential support but also caught the attention of local leaders, including Omaha Mayor John Ewing.

When residents of City View were forced to relocate due to infestation issues, they faced a difficult challenge: they could not bring their furniture with them. This left many families without basic household items, making it hard for them to settle into their new homes. Recognizing this need, The Furniture Project partnered with other community groups to provide free furniture to those in need.

Drew Gerken, a firefighter and the founder of The Furniture Project, described how his team works with organizations like the North Omaha Community Partnership to collect and deliver furniture to multiple families at once. “Sometimes we're picking up five or six different families' worth of furniture,” he explained. His efforts have helped serve 45 families from City View, offering them a sense of normalcy during a difficult time.

Mayor John Ewing praised Gerken's work, calling him an "absolute hero" in his opinion. He highlighted the importance of such initiatives in addressing community challenges and ensuring that people are treated with dignity. “The more we take care of our neighbors, the greater city we have,” Ewing said.

Origins of a Mission

The Furniture Project began as a one-man effort, driven by Gerken’s experiences as a firefighter. He was deeply affected by seeing children sleeping on the floor without any furniture, which made it hard for them to go to school. This experience inspired him to create a mission focused on providing comfort and stability to those in need.

“Every day we're here and we're sending out trucks full of furniture,” Gerken said. His dedication has grown over time, leading to a broader impact across Omaha. The project continues to operate year-round, helping families in need regardless of whether there are high-profile events like the City View relocation.

Expanding Support and Collaboration

The recent collaboration between The Furniture Project and the city of Omaha has opened new opportunities for growth. During a visit to Gerken’s warehouse, Mayor Ewing emphasized the importance of integrating such efforts into the city’s infrastructure. “We can make The Furniture Project part of that infrastructure and that comprehensive plan to address issues as they arise in our community,” he said.

Ewing also acknowledged the value of learning from past experiences. He encouraged open discussions about what worked well and what needed improvement. “What we did well, what we didn't do as well, what we need to change completely. I think all of that has to be on the table,” he added.

How to Get Involved

While The Furniture Project receives a lot of attention during major events, it remains committed to supporting families throughout the year. Those interested in volunteering or donating can visit the organization’s website. Additionally, individuals who have a caseworker can access this resource to help those in need.

Through its ongoing efforts, The Furniture Project continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Omaha residents. By providing essential furniture and fostering community collaboration, the organization ensures that everyone has the opportunity to feel at home.