When a family receives the keys to a new home, it can feel like a fresh start. But for many of our neighbors, that moment also comes with a quiet question: How will we fill this space with the basics we need?

The local Church steps in to answer this question with compassion, teamwork, and tangible hope through partnership with Love INC and its furniture ministry.

This ministry serves neighbors who have recently moved into housing and need essential furniture and household items. While some families need just a few pieces to complete their home, others are starting from scratch and need beds, tables, and everything in between.

Whatever the need, the response is the same: the Church shows up.

In 2025 alone, more than 20 churches were represented by dozens of volunteers contributing hundreds of hours to serve our neighbors. And for eight churches, this ministry is a weekly commitment — teams consistently giving their time and strength to help families settle into safe, welcoming homes.

The care begins even before the furniture arrives.

Often, a team will stop by to deliver a household starter kit, filled with everyday kitchen essentials, pots, pans, dishes, utensils, and the simple tools needed to prepare and share a meal. These starter kits transform an empty kitchen into a place where families can gather, cook, and begin building a life together.

Then comes the furniture delivery team, bringing the larger pieces that turn a space into a home. As part of Love INC’s commitment to honoring the dignity of every neighbor, beds, mattresses, pillows, and essential furnishings are provided so families have a comfortable, restful place to sleep and live.

This is Love INC doing what it was created to do: mobilizing the Church to serve the local community. And the local church is generously responding, loving neighbors in practical, life-changing ways.

You Can Be Part of This Story

Right now, the wait for a furniture delivery is about four months. More volunteers mean more families can receive help sooner.

You can join these efforts.

Midweek and weekend opportunities are available, whether you want to:

• Volunteer on your own and meet new friends from churches across the county;
• Serve alongside your existing friends or small group; or
• Invite your church to form a team and serve together.

If you can carry a couch, a lamp, or a conversation, you are needed!

To learn more or get involved, contact Linda Burton via email or phone (847) 782-8630.

Together, we can help ensure that when a neighbor receives the keys to a home, they also receive the support of the Church and the chance to truly settle in.

On the fence about serving with the furniture delivery ministry? See what some of our volunteers have to say:

“After a morning of serving, I may be physically tired, but my spirit is lifted because I was able to help a family and be the hands and feet of God.” -Chuck, Willow South Lake

“There have been Saturdays when we leave someone’s house or apartment after delivering furniture where we are richer because of the way that person ministered the gospel to us, even when we thought we were serving them.” -Everett, Trinity Community Church

“Awesome experience to walk into an apartment that is totally unfurnished and walk out a little later knowing they have furniture and supplies to live in that space.” -Jeff, Immanuel, Gurnee

“It’s nice to see the difference you can make to a family when they now have beds to sleep on.” -Kevin, New Hope

“It is a great way to meet those in the community and your church.” -Denise, Christ Church Lake Forest

Our Current Church Furniture Teams