Habitat for Humanity accepting used housing material, housewares

The Pictou County chapter of Habitat for Humanity Nova Scotia is moving to help provide housing for families who may otherwise be unable to afford it.

The non-profit group is collecting resources throughout May and June, with the eventual intent of selling them to raise funds for its first build. The group intends to build affordable housing for families in need in Pictou County.

“It’s definitely exciting to see something tangible happening and with the fundraising committee’s efforts, it’s an exciting first step for Habitat for Humanity,” said Stellarton Mayor MacGillivray, who is part of the Pictou County chapter. “We’re looking forward to making things happen in terms of, say, young working families who can’t afford a traditional mortgage.”

The Habitat Pictou County Spring Clean Drop & Shop is the fundraising effort — people are encouraged to bring any surplus construction material, household items or scrap metal through June and July for donation to the chapter.

“What we’re doing for the month of May is gathering used household items, goods, appliances and building supplies – the only things we can’t accept are clothes and mattresses,” said Kevin Pettipas, a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity. “Then, in the first two weeks of June, we’re going to have a sale.”

According to the Pictou County chapter’s Facebook page, other items Habitat for Humanity is looking for include furniture, linens, small housewares, décor fixtures and cupboards.

On June 15 Habitat for Humanity will host a sale of the items. The event, also featuring a barbecue, silent auction and local entertainment, will be happening at 24 Front St., Pictou — the same building as the post office.

Scrap metal for the fundraiser can be donated in a bin at the chapter’s Front Street location or at Stewart’s on Westville Road.

Pettipas said this month’s fundraiser will be “the first of many,” and encouraged anyone with an interest in Habitat for Humanity to volunteer.

“We’re always looking for volunteers, and if anyone has any time they can spare, that would be great,” said Pettipas. He recommended potential volunteers check out the Pictou County chapter’s website, or its Facebook page for more information.