Since late summer, The RoomPlace in Merrillville has partnered with Lakeshore Area Regional Recovery of Indiana, to help LARRI clients replace furniture damaged or lost in the September 2008 floods. 

The grant that funds the LARRI flood relief efforts provides for the replacement of some furniture for qualified flood victims. 

LARRI Recovery Specialist Coordinator Kathy O’Day made several attempts to reach out to local furniture companies and finally found a listening ear when she met Durwin Arnold, the Assistant Store Manager for The RoomPlace. 

Arnold said, “It’s a privilege and an honor to be involved in a project like this with LARRI. It’s a unique opportunity to reach out to the community.” 

He added that everyone in upper management jumped on board. “It was a no-brainer.” 

The RoomPlace offers a specific selection of sofas, chairs, dinette sets and bedroom suites at discounted prices that LARRI representatives can purchase for clients. 

“Our clients have been very happy,” O’Day said.