ReStore helps residents, organization
I am a big fan of the Habitat for Humanity program. When I see Jimmy Carter on the news swinging a hammer so someone can have a home of their own it makes me want to jump in and help locally.
But I know my limitations. Nothing gets my hubby out of his recliner faster than me casually mentioning I am going to grab the hammer and put up a picture or two. My talents do not include using tools of any sort with the intended results. Then I found a way to help this great cause without creating problems with my lack of carpentry skills.
Habitat for Humanity has stores aptly named "ReStores" that directly benefit their program. The closest in the Fox Valley is 800 North State Street in Elgin.
We took a drive up there this weekend. It is a cross between a resale shop with new and used building materials and my dad's basement — kind of dusty but full of useful things. The ReStore accepts donated goods from contractors, homeowners, retailers and manufacturers to resell at greatly reduced prices.
Not only does this keep items out of landfills, but they provide a source of low-cost materials to people who might not be able to afford them.
Like any resale shop, it is hit or miss at any given time. If you sign up for their e-mails at www.restoreelgin.org you will receive weekly specials. This week lighting fixtures were 20 percent off the already low prices. One great bargain were some $140 hanging fixtures, new in unopened original boxes for $10 each — less the 20 percent discount. All sales are final, but one of the helpful staff will test the lights before you purchase them to make sure they work.
Other items include appliances, cabinets, carpeting and lumber. They have windows and doors, hinges and nails. Prices were as low as 25 cents for a quart of stain and $3 for mini blinds. This isn't Home Depot, so they may not have the color you are looking for, or the size you need, but if your budget is tight, you might find the bargain you need to complete your project. I was impressed with the variety of ceramic tile at $1 a square foot.
They also hold home improvement classes the second Saturday of each month at 10 a.m. Contact the ReStore at 847-742-9905 for information. The topics for the next few months include tile installation, drywall installation and kitchen cabinet repair and refinishing.
The Northern Fox Valley Affiliate of Habitat for Humanity has built more than 40 homes since 1990. It is headquartered in Carpentersville and serves Kane County. If you are comfortable swinging a hammer, please consider helping build a home with them. Shopping at the ReStore in Elgin, volunteering there or donating is the next best thing. The ReStore's hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday to Friday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.
Laura Hartman can be reached at Laurahartman171@gmail.com.
