From GBH.org; by Kana Ruhalter and Arun Rath – On this week’s edition of the Joy Beat, we’re celebrating an Acton-based nonprofit.

All across Massachusetts, many have made that first giant step toward stability and secured housing. But building a home doesn’t stop there. What about a bed? A couch? A dining table, chairs and other basic furnishings? That’s where Household Goods comes in. Each year, the organization provides over 2,500 homes with 60,000 pieces of furniture and household items — and it’s all free of charge. Through their work, Household Goods gives people in need an extra hand to make their space a sanctuary.

Sharon Martens, executive director of Household Goods, joined GBH’s All Things Considered host Arun Rath to discuss the lives transformed by the organization’s efforts. Listen to the interview here.