ReStoring their place in the community

The Sudbury Habitat for Humanity ReStore had a house-warming party Sunday afternoon. After moving to its new location at 444 Barrydowne Road in mid-July, the facility was ready to show off its digs to the public.

"The purpose of this open house was to introduce Habitat to the city all over again," said Lise Rheault, the organization's executive director. "This is the best location we could have asked for. We're here to stay."

"For a period of time, it seemed we weren't around because we weren't visible in our former location," said Habitat for Humanity chair Mike Julien. "This is a good place for us to set down some roots."

The ReStore is a building supply store that accepts and resells quality new and gently used building materials and supplies. It generates funds to support Habitat for Humanity Sudbury District's building programs, while reducing the amount of used materials headed for overflowing landfills.

Rheault said the ReStore brought in about $250,000 annually at the Frood Road location. The executive director said she hopes to up that fundraising total to $350,000 at the new location.

"Our traffic has already increased by 40 per cent," she said with a smile.

The move from 250 Frood Rd. to the New Sudbury location allowed the ReStore to expand its hours. The store is now open Monday to Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

"I'm in awe of this location," said Nickel Belt MPP France Gélinas, who was on hand for the celebration. "This is the busiest intersection in our community. You're moving up.

"The work you do is fantastic," she added. "You make owning a home affordable to all families."

Ward 1 Coun. Joe Cimino also commended the organization on Sunday afternoon.

"The work done by this organization is one more proof that this is a caring community," he said.

For more information, visit habitatsudbury.com or dial 705-688-8808.