Habitat for Humanity seeks help weathering recent winter storm
You might call it a sign of the times.
As if COVID-19 hadn't created enough turmoil, a recent winter storm in Regina caused several thousand dollars of damage at Habitat for Humanity's store, including a large sign that's expected to cost more than $5,000 to replace.
“The sign is totally gone,” offered store manager Amanda Partridge, who noted that pieces were scattered across the property.
“It's really unfortunate but I'm sure lots of people took damage. We're certainly not the only ones,” she added.
Habitat Regina's retail location — it's called the Restore — is critical to the charity's fundraising program because it's used to collect and sell donated items, with proceeds going to affordable housing projects for low-income families.
Several appliances intended for resale were damaged last week when record-breaking winds ripped through a fenced yard outside the store.
“The wind took them all for a little ride — some right through our parking lot,” noted Partridge. “We are able to recycle (damaged items) but we're not able to sell them. That was a bit of a hit to us, as well as our sign.”
The COVID-19 pandemic has already presented its share of challenges.
Back in the spring, Habitat Regina was forced to temporarily shut down its construction sites, putting a major townhouse project behind schedule.
The Restore also closed for several weeks, followed by a costly reopen due to additional cleaning requirements and safety equipment for staff and volunteers.
“Our business has already been hit hard with increased operating costs due to COVID,” Partridge said. “It certainly (adds) up. It's really tough to run a business these days.”
Last week's blizzard compounded the situation, prompting Habitat Regina to send out a call for assistance from individuals and businesses.
“We run on donations,” Partridge said.
“In order for the Restore to make money, we need people to donate their items so we can sell them at a reduced cost. It also helps people who maybe can't afford something new.
“A lot of people are financially strapped these days so we're more important than ever.”
Habitat Regina accepts a wide range of donations, including certain kinds of furniture, appliances, cabinets, building materials and other supplies (see: habitatregina.ca/restoredonations).
People can drop off items at the store (1740 Broder St.) or make arrangements for pickup outside their home.
Contributions also come with a charitable tax receipt.
“It helps the public and saves on taking a trip to the dump for your appliance,” noted Partridge. “Instead, just drop it off here and we can either recycle it or we can fix it up and sell it.”
Habitat Regina's call for help comes during its slowest time of the year — a post-christmas lull which typically lasts through January and February.
In this case, it's the calm after the storm.
“It's already a slower month for donations and, to have a hit like this storm, it adds even more fuel to the fire,” added Partridge. “We're just actively making sure that everyone is aware we're still here and we're still taking donations. It's really important to support us.”