The ReStore, a project of the Habitat for Humanity of Gloucester-Mathews, has trimmed its hours to the public to only one day a week—Saturday—at this time because of a lack of inventory.

Della Garrett, president of the local Habitat affiliate, said the nonprofit group hopes to promote the store, which features many donated items useful for making and furnishing a home, and to increase awareness in the community. During a recent visit to the store, located in Mid-County Center at White Marsh, about a dozen people stopped in—many purchasing items—during the reporter’s 45-minute visit.

Garrett said the ReStore has been receiving lots of furniture and some appliances. However, what’s really needed, she said, is more building materials. Donations are received from contractors and the public.

If the building materials are new, Garrett said they might be used in a new Habitat home. However, any used building materials cannot be used in constructing a Habitat home for lower-income families, according to the parent organization’s rules. Used building materials are offered for sale there.

Although prices are listed on furniture, building supplies and more, store manager Marshall Butler said "we will negotiate." Proceeds from sale of the many donated items go to support Habitat housing projects.

Butler said the ReStore has about a dozen volunteers who help to staff the facility—but more are needed. Garrett said volunteers are also needed for Habitat’s local construction projects.

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