Raleigh, N.C. — North Carolina State University is celebrating a massive project that kept over a half-million pounds of furniture out of the landfill – and in use by people in need.
"We set a new standard,” said Jim Hansen, who handles surplus property for N.C. State.
Hansen decided to call non-profit groups when the university replaced furniture in six dorm buildings. The school donated about 5,600 pieces of furniture which otherwise would have been thrown away.
“I just told them we had furniture available. That basically enabled us to get rid of everything but 15 desks,” Hansen said.
The donation also put thousands of desks, dressers and beds to good use.
"It is a wonderful opportunity not only to help the environment but also to help others in need,” said Barry Olson, associate director of N.C. State's University Housing.
Residents at the Durham Rescue Mission's Good Samaritan Inn, where some of the future went, said they are thankful.
"That makes me feel really good to know that there are others who see the need to help this place out,” said Brandolyn Bryson, Good Samaritan Inn resident.
"One man's trash is another man's treasure, so this is my treasure,” Good Samaritan Inn resident Nia Southerland said of the furniture.
As part of that renovation project, N.C. State installed energy-saving LED light fixtures in some dorm rooms. The university estimates the switch cut energy costs for lighting by about two-thirds.


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September 1, 2009 10:46 a.m.
It seems to me that 99% of people will do the right thing and 1% will try to work some angle to make some money they shouldn't. The gov't and NCSU are so obsessed with trying to catch that 1% that they'll throw stuff in the trash rather than let any genuinely needy person or organization benefit.
You have to remember that most of the stupid paperwork in which state government engages is to avoid being written up in the N&O.
August 31, 2009 3:02 p.m.
Did University Housing buy the land, build the buildings, and what about paying property tax and tax on income? I doubt it.
August 31, 2009 12:51 p.m.
August 31, 2009 12:39 p.m.
the university loses more money in the surplus scheme on most items versus if they just give it away.
August 31, 2009 12:17 p.m.