Transforming lives: LatterHouse Decor brings hope home
NATASHA MOSLEY could barely hold back the tears as she opened her apartment door and saw the bright orange and blue accent pillows on the couch, colorful artwork, new lighting, kitchenware, mirrors and more. It had all the emotions of a made-for-TV reveal, but this was a genuine transformation by LatterHouse Décor, a nonprofit organization that assists victims of domestic violence in North Texas.
“The moment I stepped into my home, I was completely blown away,” Natasha said. “The transformation was remarkable, with every room feeling fresh and inviting. Adding in the beautiful artwork, cozy throws and more really brought the space to life and made it feel like ‘mine.’”
As a survivor of domestic violence, LatterHouse Décor Founder Shalonda Waggoner knows what it’s like to start over with nothing. The nonprofit has helped nearly 100 people and will celebrate its 10th anniversary this year. Latterhouse takes its name from a Bible verse, Haggai 2:9, that says, “The glory of this latter house shall be greater than that of the former.”
“When you have to restart, you have white walls, no paintings, no pillows,” Shalonda said. “I am making sure the women who come behind me have a resource so they can dwell with dignity and thrive.”
The other driving force behind LatterHouse Décor is Maria Burke, a professional interior decorator and survivor, who makes the client’s vision come to life.
“She wants to see their new beginning, not just with home décor and furnishings, but to thrive with employment, income, wellbeing and mental capacity. Maria brings all of that together to make the woman whole again,” Shalonda said.
LatterHouse partners with College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving, who has its own mission to help survivors move at no cost through its Safe Moves, Strong Voices campaign. The majority of the furniture is donated from places like the Dallas Furniture Bank.
However, the bed frame, mattress and bedding are always bought new, adding to the nonprofit’s expenses. Last year, LatterHouse received a grant from the CoServ Charitable Foundation (CCF) that will help purchase beds, blankets and mattresses.
Operation Roundup grants like these are funded by CoServ Members and Customers who round up their bill to the nearest dollar.
“The beds, blankets and pillows purchased through this grant will provide comfort and calmness as these survivors begin a new chapter in their lives,” said CCF Coordinator Jennifer Ebert.
Not signed up for Operation Roundup? Click here to enroll today!
Want to get involved in Latter House Decors cause beyond Operation Roundup contributions? Visit latterhousedecor.org.
Want to support movers who help victims of domestic violence? Visit College Hunks Hauling & Junk Moving for more information.