Hooker Furnishings has teamed up with Florida-based retailers Baer’s Furniture and Matter Brothers Furniture to donate over 1,200 beds to victims of Hurricane Ian, the devastating natural disaster that swept through the state in late September.
“With the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Ian, I want to extend our heartfelt concern and sympathy for those that have been irreparably impacted,” said Jeremy Hoff, CEO of Hooker Furnishings. “Hooker Furnishings has always prided itself on being family and community focused, so we didn’t have to think twice about jumping in to help when we were approached by Baer’s and Matter Brothers. It is my hope that our donation helps to ease the burden of families and communities that are going through some unimaginably difficult times.”
The just over 1,200 beds have been transported out of the new Hooker Furnishings Warehouse in Midway, Georgia by Brooks Transportation who is providing the freight costs as a donation as well. The retail value of Hooker Furnishings’ donation comes out to approximately $650,000.
“When the storm hit, we knew we had to act,” said Jerry Baer, CEO of Baer’s Furniture. “As a family-owned business with multiple stores in the affected areas, we saw and experienced the devastation first-hand. When we reached out for help, Jeremy Hoff, valued partner and CEO of Hooker Furnishings, did not hesitate to step up. ‘What do you need?’ was his immediate response. We are working in conjunction with the Salvation Army, whose stellar reputation during disaster recovery is well-deserved and respected. We appreciate all our partners, communities, our store teams, and our customers who have reached out to help in the statewide relief effort.”
“Our family and our entire team are committed to supporting the recovery and rebuilding of our community,” said John Matter, President of Matter Brothers Furniture and Florida Leather Gallery. “We have connected with The United Way to provide necessities, mattresses, and furniture to our community. My brothers and I grew up here, raised our families here, and this is our home. All of our locations serve as drop-off points to collect donations to be distributed by The United Way, and the amount of care and support has been amazing. We have leaned into our valued vendor partnerships and asked for furniture and mattress donations. Hooker Furnishings’ kindness and generosity will dramatically impact the lives of many families and help them to rebuild their homes.”
For more information on how you can help victims of Hurricane Ian, please visit the website of the United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glade counties: unitedwaylee.org