Habitat for Humanity set to open Vernon store

VERNON – Habitat for Humanity Okanagan is appealing for volunteers to work at its soon to be opening Vernon store.

Habitat for Humanity director of people and culture Lorraine Richmond said the Vernon store will sell used homeware "from doors and windows to teacups and wine goblets."

Unlike most thrift stores ReStore's don't sell used clothes, instead focussing on all other aspects of what makes up a home. Also unlike most other used stores, ReStore's sell plenty of used construction goods, including everything from titles and flooring, to electrical light switches and outlets, to sinks and toilets.

"We give it a second and third life rather than just being trashed in the landfill," Richmond said. "Used kitchen cupboards sell like hotcakes."

Richmond said the store will not only provide inexpensive homeware for the community but all the money raised will go towards serving local families with affordable homeownership. Habitat for Humanity Okanagan currently owns four houses in Vernon and is looking to purchase more. Currently, the charity has space to accommodate a Vernon family and people are encouraged to see if they fit the criteria and apply.

The not-for-profit is currently looking for 60 volunteers to work at the Vernon store. Richmond skilled trade people are always appreciated, but everyone is welcome to volunteer.

"It's really fun, its flexible hours… if (volunteers) can come for four hours a week or four hours a month were happy to meet them," Richmond said.

For more information on volunteering at the Vernon ReStore or applying for housing go here.


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Ben Bulmer

After a decade of globetrotting, U.K. native Ben Bulmer ended up settling in Canada in 2009. Calling Vancouver home he headed back to school and studied journalism at Langara College. From there he headed to Ottawa before winding up in a small anglophone village in Quebec, where he worked for three years at a feisty English language newspaper. Ben is always on the hunt for a good story, an interesting tale and to dig up what really matters to the community.