A Gift of Comfort: Donating a Sofa to My Friend’s Place in Los Angeles

Since starting Couch.com, I've done many exciting things in the name of sofas, from traveling across the country to explore new brands to helping people find their dream couch. But recently, I had an opportunity to do something entirely new for Couch.com by partnering with a Los Angeles charity, My Friend's Place, to make a difference in my community.

My Friend's Place is a resource center for youth experiencing homelessness in Hollywood, California. They're dedicated to judgment-free support and assistance, helping over 1,000 young people achieve stability, wellness, and self-sufficiency. It's an incredible place that works tirelessly for the kids it helps.

I was connected originally with My Friend's Place after my best buddy (and former business partner) Mat left the furniture industry to join their team. His longstanding dedication to helping the community has always been a source of inspiration for me. So when Mat mentioned that My Friend's Place could use a new couch, I knew I had to help.

Through Couch.com, I reached out to Simpli Home, a brand dedicated to meaningful charitable efforts and a commitment to doing what's right. Their sofas are renowned for comfort and superior quality, so I knew they were the perfect match for such an important project. They eagerly donated a beautiful Rex 3-seater Sofa and Ottoman in Genuine Leather (fun fact: this is the model I have and reviewed in my own home).

My Friend's Place: A Safe Haven for Youth Experiencing Homelessness

My Friend's Place has been a beacon of hope for youth experiencing homelessness in Hollywood, California, for over 36 years. The organization is run by a network of hardworking staff and volunteers, serving young people aged 12 to 25. They provide basic needs like showers, clothing, and meals and also accommodate more individualized care, including educational and health services, mental health support, and even care for their pets. For nearly 1,000 young people each year, My Friend's Place offers safety, opportunity, and community.

"My Friend's Place is a community that cultivates growth and opportunity for young people, ages 12 to 25, currently impacted by homelessness. It's a really cool space to be in. It's a space of joy. It's a space of opportunity." — Erin Parker, Community Engagement and Volunteer Manager.

The work at My Friend's Place is complex, ensuring each young person receives unconditional, individualized care and support. As Community Engagement and Volunteer Manager Erin Parker says:

"We are meeting young people where they're at on their best day and on their worst day, and they are getting comprehensive care. Regardless of how they show up, we will show up for them."

The dedication of My Friend's Place is evident in everything they do. Their space is one where every individual is seen, supported, and given a chance to thrive, offering a true sense of belonging for those who need it most.

Simpli Home's Commitment to Giving Back

Simpli Home is a fresh, modern brand crafting high-quality, timeless furniture. Their approach centers around making premium furniture accessible to all, guided by a simple philosophy: Do the right thing. Whether through their affordable, handcrafted furniture or their environmental initiatives (like planting one tree for every order), Simpli Home creates positive change.

When My Friend's Place needed a new sofa for their lounge, Simpli Home stepped in without hesitation. They donated the Rex 3-seater Sofa and Ottoman, a beautifully designed piece that combines buttery-soft genuine leather and solid wood craftsmanship to create a comfortable and supportive seating option. This sofa now sits proudly in My Friend's Place, adding warmth, comfort, and a cozy, welcoming place to gather.

Simpli Home's willingness to give back to the community is a perfect reflection of their core values. Their support of My Friend's Place demonstrates how a small gesture can make a big difference in the lives of others.

Simpli Home's Rex Sofa: A Safe Place to Rest 

A sofa may seem like a simple gesture, but for the youth at My Friend's Place, the Rex 3-seater Sofa is so much more. It represents safety and comfort, offering a place for young people to find a moment of peace.

"When a young person is street-based, it is very, very, very difficult to sleep through the night. When young folks come in for the day, oftentimes one of their main priorities is finally getting some rest. And they are not able to do that unless they feel safe and comfortable." — Erin Parker

Many of these young people come into My Friend’s Place after nights of interrupted or nonexistent sleep. SimpliHome's donated sofa gives them a chance to take a nap, rest, and recharge—something they cannot do easily on the streets.

"The couch to us has a special meaning. When I see a young person sleeping on the couch, I know that that young person feels safe enough to doze off for a few hours, and they are getting the rejuvenating rest that they will need to navigate the many obstacles that are still within their path." — Erin Parker

The Rex Sofa helps create an environment where youth can feel cared for and valued, allowing them a chance at physical and emotional rest.

The Power of Organizations Giving Back

This partnership between Simpli Home and My Friend’s Place is a beautiful example of how organizations can unite to make a meaningful impact in their community. By donating a sofa, they created a ripple effect, helping bring comfort and support to those who need it most. 

Community collaborations like this make a world of difference in the lives of young people. When organizations and businesses come together to provide comfort and support, they are contributing to a stronger, more compassionate community.

What Can You Do To Help

If you’d like to support the incredible work being done at My Friend’s Place, there are several ways to get involved.

You can contact them through the following channels:

• Phone Numbers: (323) 908-0011, 1-888-YOUTH-50
• Location: 5850 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90028
• Email: volunteer@myfriendsplace.org for volunteer opportunities.

• Make a financial contribution to support the youth—every amount helps.
• Get involved in volunteer opportunities, such as serving meals or helping with community drives.
• Organize a community drive to collect essentials like clothing, hygiene supplies, blankets, or backpacks for homeless youth.

For those inspired to help, consider supporting brands like Simpli Home that are dedicated to giving back. By choosing companies that prioritize community and sustainability, you can be part of the change that makes a difference in people's lives.

Make a Contribution Now and join the effort to support the young people of My Friend’s Place. Together, we can create a community of care and compassion that helps these youth move toward a brighter future.