Thinking about spring cleaning?
You are not alone. People in Campbell River have caught spring fever, and they are de-cluttering their homes with a vengeance. Rather than throwing their gently used items in the trash, they are donating items to local charities.
The Habitat for Humanity Vancouver Island North’s ReStore in Campbell River is one of the recipients of this generosity.
The non-profit organization which helps local families secure affordable housing is putting out a call for volunteers for its receiving area, to help sort, price and organize housewares items, and in all other areas of the store’s operations.
“With the return of weekend garage sales, we experience a significant – and most welcome – increase in donations,” says ReStore Operations Manager Ellie Karas. “Most people know that we accept and sell new and gently used building materials, furniture, and large appliances, but we also receive donations of housewares, garden supplies, sports equipment and more. Many local shoppers make a habit of coming into the ReStore on a regular basis to see what new treasures are in store for them. We appreciate that this community is so generous in its support.”
“The ReStore is an important part of Habitat for Humanity’s operations because the profits from the ReStore support our build projects,” says Volunteer Coordinator Lorraine Holden. “We do have a core group of employees at the ReStore, but we depend on a team of more than 60 volunteers to help us with everything from electronics testing and metal recycling, as well as sorting, cleaning, pricing and working as a cashier. Volunteers truly are the heart of this organization.”
If you are a garage sale guru who can, for example, tell the difference between a Fiestaware dinner plate and a knock-off, you could be the type of volunteer that the ReStore needs to help price and merchandise houseware donations.
Potential volunteers should be available to commit to at least one four-hour shift (from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 1-5 p.m.) Monday through Saturday. Orientation and training will be provided.
Both businesses and members of the public are welcome to drop off donations at the ReStore, 1725B Willow Street from 9a.m. through 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Habitat for Humanity will also pick up donations free of charge. Call 250-830-1493.
Those interested in volunteering at the ReStore are encouraged to call Lorraine Holden at 250-830-1493, ext. 224 or email lorraine@habitatnorthisland.com
Since it was founded in 2004, Habitat for Humanity Vancouver Island North has built 12 homes in the Comox Valley and four in Campbell River. They are currently building a duplex in Campbell River and two families are working hard to complete their required 500 hours of sweat equity.