Reuse, Recycle, ReStore

Shoppers are often surprised when they walk through the doors at Habitat for Humanity’s North Idaho ReStore. “The merchandise changes constantly and it is the thrill of the hunt that keeps them coming back,” says Renee McGlocklin, ReStore manager. “Remodel, Rebuild, ReNew, ReStore,” is a perfect motto for the store — the Hayden location and other locations are really home improvement retail outlets, where quality used building materials, appliances, and home furnishings are available at reduced prices. Habitat for Humanity International is a worldwide, faith-based housing ministry with the objective to eliminate sub-standard housing by partnering with families to build affordable housing. A large portion of the proceeds from sales support Habitat for Humanity’s home construction fund. Habitat’s Environmental Initiative promotes cost-effective, best-practice construction methods to its U.S. affiliates, raising awareness of the environmental impacts of house building. “As a result, partner families enjoy healthier, more energy-efficient and durable housing at the lowest possible cost,” according to McGlocklin. Over time the initiative has been integrated into Habitat’s standard education and training activities, so that affiliates are encouraged to be good house builders and good stewards of natural resources. Rising landfill costs, tighter recycling guidelines, and the growing trend toward ecologically sound building methods has fueled demand for remodeling and recycling, according to McGlocklin. “When merchandise is purchased from the ReStore patrons are helping the environment by rechanneling good, usable materials into use,” says McGlocklin. The ReStore is located in Hayden just south of Ziggy’s. Materials sold by Habitat ReStores are usually donated from building supply stores, contractors or from individuals who wish to show their support for Habitat. The no-frills warehouse accepts new and reusable building and remodeling materials such as doors, cabinets, tiles, paint, furniture, lighting fixtures, flooring, hardware, electrical, windows, granite, toilets, sinks, and appliances that do not need repair. All donations are tax deductible. A car, truck, boat or RV can be donated to Cars for Homes — Habitat’s official car donation program by calling 877-277- 4344. Habitat also has an aluminum can and cardboard recycling program. Originally the Kootenai County ReStore started in a small red barn at 16th and Hanley and did a good trade in spite of irregular operating hours. When Habitat for Humanity of North Idaho needed more office space, both the offices and the ReStore moved to Seltice Way. Sales continued to skyrocket at the Seltice Way location and an even larger space was needed. The move to the current Hayden location three years ago, with excellent highway exposure and accessibility, has helped sales grow. ReStore will even ‘deconstruct’ old structures by salvaging windows, carpets, doors, and roofing. According to McGlocklin, many cities in the U.S. have introduced incentives to reduce this kind of waste, especially where construction and demolition refuse account for a high percent of landfill waste. “Reuse and recycling helps our landfill and helps Habitat build affordable, energy efficient houses for low to moderate income families in Kootenai County,” said McGlocklin. “Everyone benefits.”