What we do:

The Barnabas Network functions as a furniture bank, gathering new and gently used furniture from around the community to give to qualified families and individuals on the path to self-sufficiency. Our clients are transitioning out of homelessness, recovering from a major setback, fleeing abuse or violence, or overcoming severe poverty. Clients are referred to Barnabas from one of 150 referring agencies.

 

Mission Statement:

The Barnabas Network, a nonprofit organization, through a collaborative effort of diverse faith communities and social agencies, offers systemic encouragement including basic home furnishings for families and individuals who are moving from homelessness, recovering from a major setback, fleeing domestic violence, or living with incomes that cannot cover basic needs.

 

History:

The Barnabas Network was created by a small group of congregants at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, Greensboro, in 2005. At that time, the church provided transitional housing on church property for people who were coming out of homelessness or seeking refuge in Greensboro from war-torn countries and hurricane-devastated New Orleans. These neighbors had no furniture to make their house a home and buying or renting furniture was financially impossible.  The Barnabas Ministry, as it was originally called, began collecting furniture to give away. The ministry was named for St. Barnabas (which means “man of encouragement”) who sold all his goods and gave the money to the apostles. The ministry grew, and in 2006, organized as an independent nonprofit organization named The Barnabas Network. In an average year, The Barnabas Network now serves more than 2,000 people who are working towards self-sufficiency and trying to break the cycle of poverty.

Visionary Supporters

The Barnabas Network's growth from a church ministry to a stand-alone non-profit organization required the support of many people. These visionaries contributed their time, talent and treasure to ensure our success.

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Geoff Atack

Scott and Libby Brewington

Hayes and Clem Clement

Russ and Betsy Dunn

Neil Dunnavant

David and Nancy Farmer

Glenn and Carole Lesley

Robert and Kathryn Long

Alex and Terri Maultsby

Tim Patterson

Wanda Poole

Don and Sally Royster

James and Melinda Rucker

John and Regina Schamberger

Jim and Robin Vaughn

Rick and Ann Vaughn

Jackie Wilson

Chip and Whimsey Wright