Despite the effect of a global pandemic and cultural struggles that affect us all, there is much to be thankful for as we enter the holiday season.
Ours is a community that takes care of its own in so many ways. At Nevada County Habitat we experience this every day, as kind-hearted members of our community give of their time and treasure to ensure our hard-working families have an opportunity to forge long-term stability in helping them build forever homes. We’re grateful for the lasting commitment so many local individuals and businesses have made to the Habitat mission.
We’re also appreciative of the connection Nevada County Habitat has with other community organizations. This connection is best exemplified through the relationship Nevada County Habitat ReStore has with Interfaith Food Ministries.
The ReStore began working with Interfaith Food Ministries in 2019, accepting non-perishable food and personal care items. A large barrel is set-up permanently in front of the register area at ReStore. Since beginning the program ReStore patrons have donated over 400 pounds of food. Once the barrel is full ReStore employees load it in the back of our truck and deliver it to Interfaith.
“With so many stressful factors in our lives right now it reaffirms my faith in people, and the depths of their kindness, by daily witnessing members of our community, who are also struggling with our new norms, reach out to help where they are able to, one can of food at a time.” Says ReStore General Manager, Mary Gill.
“Interfaith staff has been so wonderful, accommodating to our drop-off schedule. Their volunteers can always be counted on to be warm and greet you with a smile.”
To further promote the relationship with Interfaith, ReStore features a monthly store-wide promotion. When a patron donates two or more non-perishable food items they will receive a 10% discount off their entire purchase.
Nevada County Habitat ReStore has also partnered with Hospice of the Foothills and with Connecting Point. Occasionally ReStore will receive donations of clothing and blankets (that come with other home furnishing donations). Recently ReStore delivered a barrel of clothing and blankets to Hospice: while helping to create a clothing closet for Connecting Point clients, who need appropriate clothing for interviews and court dates.
“While our mission is to build homes with deserving families,” says Habitat Executive Director, Lorraine Larson, “It is also to build hope within our community. Partnering with other like-minded community organizations makes sense and helps us to build a stronger, more resilient community as a whole. We can do so much more when we work together.”