by Carol Aun, Abbotsford News
Habitat for Humanity celebrated the opening of the new location for its ReStore this past weekend while raising money to help victims of last month’s earthquake in Nepal.
A barbecue, by donation, outside the new 20,000 sq. ft. shop – located at 31877 South Fraser Way – raised about $1,000 for Nepal. The money will be sent to Habitat for Humanity’s international organization.
The new store is twice the size of the previous one on Abbotsford Way.
Habitat for Humanity CEO Doug Rempel said the new space is “filled to the brim” with furniture, appliances and home building supplies.
“It took us about six weeks to move because we were moving and still running the store,” said Rempel. “It was a big job.”
About 40 volunteers rolled up their sleeves to help, he estimates.
And this week, someone donated 5,000 red bricks.
“We receive donations from individuals as well as companies,” noted Rempel, who described the operation as a new and used building supplies store.
There is also a recycling program operating out of the store where people can drop off scrap metal.
“We separate it and, if there are appliances, we test them and sell them to raise money and help other organizations.”
All proceeds from the ReStore help support Habitat for Humanity projects.
Last year, the group built a house on Farmer Road in Abbotsford and now Rempel is looking for land to build another affordable house, townhouse or apartment.
“We help build homes for low-income families that can’t get a traditional mortgage,” said Rempel. “We also help with home renovation projects for people who can’t afford to fix their home.”
Rempel said the projects can range from $1,000 to $15,000 in value and most of the work is done by volunteers. Sometimes professionals, like a certified electrician or plumber, are brought in when a volunteer is not available.
Since 2001, Habitat for Humanity has finished six homes and completed countless home renovation projects.
For more information about Habitat for Humanity, visit habitat.ca.