Nonprofit of the Month: The Mustard Seed of Central Indiana

Imagine starting over with nothing but the walls of an empty apartment. No bed, no table to gather around, and no chair to rest after a long day. This is the reality for countless families and individuals across central Indiana.

Enter The Mustard Seed of Central Indiana, a nonprofit organization changing lives by providing furniture to those in need.

Often described as a food pantry for furniture, The Mustard Seed has been a beacon of hope since its inception in 2014. The organization’s roots trace back to Orlando, Florida, where it was founded in 1980 by a woman with a simple but transformative idea – collect gently used furniture and donate it to families who need a fresh start. Inspired by her work, Chuck McNulty brought the concept to Indiana, opening a branch in Fort Wayne before establishing the Fishers-based nonprofit we know today.

The Mustard Seed functions as a furniture bank, relying on generous donations from the community.

“Think of it this way,” says Hilary Ricks, executive director. “When you move into a home, you need a place to sit, a place to sleep, a place to eat and places for your belongings. That’s what we provide.”

Most of the clients served by The Mustard Seed are referred through local organizations such as the Marion County Homeless Initiative and veterans support groups. Many are veterans themselves, often over 65, who find themselves starting anew after life-altering circumstances. Others include families escaping domestic violence or individuals transitioning out of homelessness.

For these clients, The Mustard Seed isn’t just about furniture; it’s about dignity. A dining table becomes a place for shared meals, a couch a spot for conversations, and a bed a much-needed refuge.

Post-pandemic, the demand for The Mustard Seed’s services has remained steady, with an increasing number of referrals involving refugees and newly housed individuals. Despite the challenges, the team works tirelessly to ensure everyone who comes to them receives the essentials for a fresh start.

The Mustard Seed’s mission thrives on community support, and there are countless ways to get involved. Donations are the lifeblood of the organization. Whether it’s a couch, a small kitchen table or a set of dishes, every item makes a difference.

The Mustard Seed furniture warehouse

“Our biggest need is small kitchen tables,” says Ricks. “Many clients live in smaller spaces, and these tables are hard to come by.”

In addition to furniture, The Mustard Seed relies on volunteers. From washing and packaging donated linens to repairing gently damaged furniture, there’s a task for everyone. Ricks says she’s looking for volunteers who are handy with tools. She says those skills could help transform old furniture into like-new items for those in need. Boy Scout troops and hobbyists are especially encouraged to get involved with special woodworking projects.

Financial contributions are also crucial. They help maintain operations and expand delivery services, ensuring furniture reaches those without transportation.

The Mustard Seed of Central Indiana proves that even the smallest acts of kindness – donating a chair, volunteering an afternoon or sharing their story – can blossom into something extraordinary.

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