Beyond New Distribution Center Furnishes Hope for the Community
Founded by Black entrepreneur Marsha D. Carter, the Beyond New Distribution Center provides affordable furniture and household items for people transitioning out of homelessness, while also offering clothing, empowerment programs, and community support.
Affordable furnishings with a heart
The Beyond New Distribution Center is more than just a space for gently used furniture and household items. It’s a community lifeline. Founded by Marsha D. Carter, a passionate Black entrepreneur, the center addresses a critical need: making affordable furnishings accessible to those transitioning out of homelessness and striving for stability.
Marcia’s inspiration stems from firsthand experience. “I’ve worked with women in homeless shelters,” she explains. “Some of the barriers to getting into their own apartments are having enough money not only for the down payment and first month’s rent, but also to furnish their spaces. We make furniture affordable.”
The center, which soft launched in May, operates with flexibility and compassion. Clients can visit by appointment or walk in, and the team even provides items to those in financial need. This hands-on approach ensures that community members aren’t limited by bureaucracy or strict requirements. They simply have to want to better their lives.
Beyond the distribution center, Marcia’s broader initiative, Beyond New, encompasses multiple programs. The umbrella nonprofit includes the Beyond New Thrift Store, which supplies clothing to local schools and community members, and various empowerment classes that promote health, wellness, and work readiness. “Our goal is to provide access and wellness… physically, emotionally and mentally,” Marcia says.
The organization also partners with other community-focused groups, offering programs like Dress for Success pop-ups for those reentering society after incarceration. Volunteers are always welcome, making it easy for community members to contribute directly to the mission.
What sets Beyond New apart, Marcia emphasizes, is its heart. “We are Black-owned, we are in the city, we are serving the community, and we have really nice items. There are no barriers. You can advocate for yourself with us, and we’ll meet you where you’re at.”
With empathy, flexibility, and a deep commitment to service, Beyond New Distribution Center isn’t just distributing furniture. It’s helping people build better lives.
For more information, visit www.beyondthedancenetwork.com
Jasmine McBride welcomes reader responses at jmcbride@spokesman-recorder.com