by Mike Ohrberg
As World Habitat Day (October 1) approaches, Habitat for Humanity affiliates across the planet participate in special events aimed to call attention to the need for better shelter around the world. Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley is planning a free movie night at the Old Town Temecula Theater with a showing of “The Pursuit of Happyness” (rated PG-13).
A short presentation about what your local affiliate is doing to eradicate homelessness in the Inland Valley will be included. In addition, both the Temecula and Lake Elsinore ReStores will host special sales to mark the celebration.
Our ReStore staff is often asked how the home improvement discount stores really help the mission of Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley. Because there is no easy answer, I’ve assembled a list of all the ways that the ReStores benefit our organization, our community and you.
- Donations to the ReStore divert tons of waste from ending up in our local landfill
- Local residents and businesses donate appliances, furniture and building materials that are then sold at the ReStore at up to 70% off regular retail prices. Because Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley does not pay for inventory, 100% of the proceeds from the store are used for building and rehabilitation projects
- Our ReStore staff will pick up donations from homes, businesses or construction sites, thereby saving our donors time and money
- Habitat for Humanity homeowners who are required to provide “sweat equity” find the ReStore a great place to volunteer and meet their neighbors
- The ReStores are run on volunteers. Individuals, families, teens and seniors find that our organization is a safe and satisfying experience
- Homeowners will find the same merchandise as other big box home improvement retail stores at much lower prices
- The vast diversity and quick turn-over of our inventory have positioned our staff as knowledgeable resources on everything from weatherization to organic gardening and chemical-free home cleaning. As a matter of fact, our affiliate will be offering a Healthy Home Educational Series. Stay tuned for more information.
There are many ways that the ReStores help Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley fulfill their goal of providing adequate housing in our community. We like to think we also help residents save time and money. If you want to learn more about the ReStores or Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley, I invite you to attend our World Habitat Day celebration on October 1 at the Old Town Temecula Theater. The event is free to the public and will include free appetizers and beverages.
Mike Ohrberg is the Director of ReStores. Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley operates two ReStores located at 27479 Enterprise West in Temecula and 571 Central Avenue, Suite I in Lake Elsinore. Both stores are open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. For more information regarding Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley or the ReStores, visit www.Habitat4InlandValley.org or call (951) 676-1221.