Helping Hands and Full Hearts

IN RIDGEWOOD, community isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a way of life. And few efforts reflect that better than Families for Families, a local nonprofit transforming lives across Bergen and Passaic counties. The mission is simple but powerful: to help individuals and families transitioning out of homelessness move into safe, fully furnished homes—and do it with compassion, dignity, and joy.

At the heart of this work is a growing group of Ridgewood residents volunteering their time, talents and resources to make a difference.

Whether organizing kitchenware donations, assembling packages for birthday celebrations or running a toolbox drive, these locals show how deeply rooted community service can be.

FURNISHING FAMILIES

For longtime Ridgewood resident Kit Chang, becoming an empty nester wasn’t the end of her caregiving— it was just a new chapter. After researching many local charitable initiatives, Chang regularly volunteers here each week.

“As my kids are heading off to college, I felt it was the right time,” she says. “This is such a good cause, and I knew my organizational skills would be useful.”

Chang gamely jumps in wherever she’s needed—organizing the pantry, working on special projects or rearranging entire rooms of donated goods and clothing. “It truly brings me joy to contribute meaningfully to the community that has given my family so much.”

The organization’s signature program, Furnishing Great Starts, helps recently sheltered families turn empty apartments into warm, welcoming homes. Clients are referred to by various social service agencies, homeless shelters and other organizations and are invited to “shop” for donated furniture, household goods and home décor, all free of charge.

It’s where Lori Norian, a Ridgewood native (RHS Class of ‘89) and longtime board member, has witnessed countless moments of joy. Norian, who helped grow the nonprofit from a grassroots effort into a full-fledged 501(c)(3), has worn many hats over the years, including serving in various board positions and as a hands-on warehouse volunteer. She now heads up the organization’s marketing efforts.

“I love that the charity is local, helping people in our community, and its mission is to create family connections. I know that I have been very fortunate and feel a responsibility to give back and help whenever I can,” Norian says.

The organization strives to maintain the highest quality furnishings and clothing for families. “If you wouldn’t offer it to a member of your own family, it shouldn’t be here,” says Norian. “There’s real dignity in giving people beautiful, functional things. It tells them: you matter.”

That ethos runs through every aspect of Families for Families, from the items they collect to the relationships they nurture. The organization now offers a variety of wraparound services: a food pantry, a Birthday Club that delivers party kits to families who can’t afford to celebrate a child’s birthday and seasonal events, including a Halloween trunk-or-treat and an old-fashioned summer picnic where volunteers, donors, supporters and client families come together as a community.

Ridgewood resident Smitha Connors appreciates the creative outreach of the organization and the fun, simple ways that families can make a difference in the lives of those in need. “I wanted to help but didn’t have much time. I learned about the Birthday Club, which allowed me to assemble items for a family birthday celebration— and my kids wanted to help, too! It is a great organization,” Connors says.

Opportunities abound for donors and supporters to “adopt” a child or a family in need, and they are then invited to participate in all special, client-facing events to build relationships with the families they assist.

A DEEPER NEED

Executive Director Cristyn Madley states: “We are one of the only local organizations of its kind fostering these relationships, providing an opportunity for a closer connection with the recipients. It’s truly a valuable experience.”

Madley started Families for Families in 2019 after a simple holiday gift drive opened her eyes to a deeper need. “I was working with a local shelter to deliver presents, and they asked if we had a spare couch,” she says. “We lugged one up to a third-floor apartment and realized—it was completely empty. No beds, no kitchen table. Just blank walls and that one couch. That was the lightbulb moment.”

Madley secured warehouse space in Wyckoff, relying on grassroots support and local businesses. Amato Galasso, another RHS grad (Class of ‘89) and owner of Entertainment on Wheels has been a key supporter, providing below-market warehouse space, trucks and even inflatable rentals for special events. “It’s incredible what they’ve built,” Galasso says. “When I saw what Families for Families was doing for the community, I knew I had to help however I could.”

The organization has grown exponentially, with over 400 active volunteers—many from Ridgewood— and partnerships with nearly a dozen shelters and agencies across Bergen and Passaic counties. But, the need continues to grow. As families move out of shelters and into permanent housing, the gap between what they’re given—a lease—and what they need—a home—remains significant. “That’s where we come in,” says Madley. “We’re not solving homelessness, but we are removing one big barrier to a family’s stability and comfort by helping to provide all of the basics.”

Volunteering with Families for Families was a natural fit for Ridgewood resident Jim Sutliff after a career transition early last year. Having benefited from the local community activities and services throughout his life, Jim knew that many families in the area struggle to make ends meet—and he felt a strong desire to give back.

“I volunteer because I know that my time is well spent and that I can actually meet the people who benefit from our services each day,” he says. “The environment is welcoming, and I enjoy the freedom to make a difference.” Now a staple in the warehouse and food pantry, Sutliff helps stock shelves, greet families and assist with moving and arranging furniture donations.

For the past 20 years, Kate and Kevin Monroe have proudly called Ridgewood home. With a heart for giving back, Kate volunteers twice a week. A former interior decorator, Kate brings a unique flair to her volunteer work. Her home staging and design expertise is a tremendous asset, helping clients turn their new apartments into warm, welcoming spaces.

“I think the energy of your home is crucial to your happiness and productivity in life,” says Kate Monroe. “That’s why I love that Families for Families goes beyond just providing basics—they help people create a space that truly feels like home.”

Born and raised in Ridgewood and a proud graduate of Ridgewood High School, Cassandra Luing’s family has always been actively involved in local programs and social services. Now a recent graduate of Gettysburg College, Cassandra’s passion for giving back led her to volunteer with Families for Families. With plans to pursue a career in social work, her time there has offered valuable hands-on insight into families’ real challenges and needs.

“The staff and volunteers at Families for Families make such a positive impact,” says Cassandra. “Their interactions with clients are grounded in kindness and respect. It makes me want to do even more.”

The organization is constantly evolving to meet new needs. They’re currently seeking a social worker and more volunteers. From teens looking for service hours to retirees eager to give back, there’s a role for everyone—and quality furniture, houseware and clothing donations are always in demand.

As Ridgewood residents continue to show up, the impact of Families for Families is clear: When a community comes together, it doesn’t just furnish rooms. It creates homes.

To learn more about making donations or volunteering, visit families4families.com

BY KRIS PEPPER