Big changes at a Monroe County nonprofit. A new location, new faces and even a new store are all part of the excitement for the area’s Habitat for Humanity.
Contractors are hard at work inside Monroe County’s Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore in the Village Center off of Milford Road in Marshalls Creek. Back in September, we first told you about the new kind of home improvement center in the Poconos that will offer building materials and household items at a fraction of the retail price. Plus those bargain buys will help more people become homeowners.
Monroe County Habitat for Humanity Restore Manager Amanda Shade says, "Proceeds from our store will go toward home preservation projects, building homes and preparing homes in the future."
Today we got our first tour.
We’re told the last phases of construction are finishing up and the goal is to open in May. Donations for the store are now being accepted on site. You’re just asked to call Habitat first.
Shade says, "We’re looking for pretty much anything that’s gently used that’s like home improvement items, gently used tools, power tools, hand tools, different construction materials. We’re accepting furniture, mostly all wooden furniture right now."
That's just one of the many big changes. The nonprofit's offices have also relocated to the Marshalls Creek location from Tobyhanna. Members are in the process of moving in on the second floor, suite 12.
Monroe County Habitat for Humanity Acting Executive Director Scott Fabian says, "We want you to stop by and visit us. Our office is open 9 to 5, Monday through Friday."
Fabian is the Acting Executive Director of Monroe County Habitat for Humanity after Kelly Kemmerer recently announced her resignation. She had been in the role for nearly a decade. But their staff has also expanded a lot. You’ll see many new faces.
Fabian says, "It’s a very exciting time. We have such an active board of directors that have helped make this what it is today, and we’re expanding into the future."
We’re told housing remains a huge problem in Monroe County. And the nonprofit is evolving to continue their efforts in solving it.