Habitat for Humanity ReStore Benefits Local Community

Customers can make a difference when they shop at the Atlanta Habitat for Humanity ReStore.

Located on Memorial Drive in Grant Park — across the street from historic Oakland Cemetery — the store sells new and gently used home improvement materials, home furnishings and building supplies to the public at deep discounts.

All proceeds from the ReStore are used to help fulfill Habitat for Humanity's mission to build affordable, green, quality homes in partnership with working families.

Atlanta Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit ecumenical housing ministry that helps local families achieve their dream of home ownership. It is one of approximately 1,600 affiliates of Habitat
for Humanity International. Habitat operates in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Guam, Puerto Rico and dozens of other countries.

Although the inventory can vary by location and time of visit, most ReStore outlets around the country offer home improvement materials, home furnishings and building supplies.

Individuals, well-known manufacturers, retail stores, builders and remodelers donate the merchandise.

All donations must be in excellent physical and working condition. Based on individual circumstances, donors may qualify for a tax deduction.

The 12,400-square foot Atlanta store is staffed by five full-time employees, two part-time employees and approximately 30 volunteers each week. There is an additional 2,000 square feet of space available for storage.

According to Lisa Schwinghammer, retail sales director, furniture, plumbing and cabinets are some of the more popular items. Rental property owners and developers are always looking for those types of items.

"We have a lot of regular customers who come in every week because they don't want to miss anything," she said.

"What makes this business unique is that everyone benefits," Schwinghammer said. "Donors may qualify for a tax deduction, and shoppers get a valuable discount."

The store's impact on the environment is equally important.

"Since 2001, we've diverted over 2,700 tons of materials from going into the landfill.

"It's really a circle," she added. "You can work in a lot of places and never get this kind of opportunity."

Located at 519 Memorial Drive S.E., the Atlanta Habitat for Humanity ReStore is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m.to 4 p.m. For more information on donating items or scheduling a pickup, call 404-525-2114.