The delicate dishes are stacked carefully on rows of shelves, which showcase the beauty of the sparkling dinnerware. Nearby, nostalgic knick-knacks catch your attention. Looking ahead, neat rows of sofas, chairs, and ottomans offer an invitation to sit down and relax for a brief while.
Where is this place? The setting is the inside of ReStore in Carroll County, Md, a retail outlet that is operated by Habitat for Humanity of Carroll County. The facility is a nonprofit donation center and home improvement store. It houses gently-used furniture, appliances, home accessories, and building materials, which are sold at a fraction of retail prices.
Proceeds from sales support Habitat for Humanity of Carroll County’s mission to build and renovate affordable homes in the local community. In addition, ReStore’s collection of donated items is evidence of environmental responsibility. Reusable materials from landfills can be transformed into household items which hold value for the recipients.
ReStore is located at 433 Hahn Road, Westminster, Md. 21157. The facility is open to the community.
“ReStore in Carroll County exists to fund the mission of Habitat for Humanity,” said Director of Development Stephanie Averett. She works for Habitat for Humanity of Carroll County.
“We strive to provide fair prices and we mark down our furniture every two weeks,” she said. “Customers can find awesome deals, while providing mission-driven financial support.”
In fact, the Carroll County Times newspaper voted ReStore as the number one furniture store in the county for the past two years. Unique items include a mid-century, modern Mobler Danish teak dresser; nightstands; credenzas; and stacking tables. Visitors return often to discover new treasures.
Habitat for Humanity of Carroll County Executive Director Scott Swartz said, “ReStore is not just a thrift shop. ReStore is the beating heart of Habitat for Humanity of Carroll County. Every item donated and every purchase made is more than just a transaction. They are the building blocks for a better tomorrow.
“We help families to achieve the dream of home ownership, while keeping good stuff out of landfills,” he said. “When shoppers walk through the door, they are doing much more than saving a chair. Supporters are helping to create a foundation for someone’s future.”
About Habitat for Humanity of Carroll County
The nonprofit organization, which is part of a nationwide network, is dedicated to creating and preserving affordable housing in the local community for eligible applicants.
Since 2002, the organization has built and rehabilitated homes, serving numerous individuals and families through the efforts of volunteers and community partners.
Habitat for Humanity of Carroll County operates on the belief that everyone deserves a decent place to live, and works toward this goal through construction, renovation, and advocacy.
Interesting Facts
1. Habitat for Humanity of Carroll County is accepting applications for a 14th home, which is a renovation project at 164 South Court Street in Westminster, Md.
2. The total volunteer time in 2024 was 11,994 hours.
3. The number of volunteers in 2024 was 710.
For more information, go to https://cchabitat.org/
Written by Sylvia Blair, Professional Writer
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