Due to the recent mandates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),as well as Habitat International, the Fond du Lac County Habitat for Humanity ReStore is set to close its doors.
The ReStore, a subsidiary of the Fond du Lac Habitat for Humanity affiliate, is a resale thrift store of hard goods that donates to the affiliate to assist in fulfilling the mission of the organization. Historically, the ReStore has provided a financial stream to offset some of the costs associated with mission fulfillment; however, given new requirements surrounding staffing and cleaning standards, the cost/benefit is no longer favorable. Thus, the ReStore will liquidate its contents and sell the property.
“This has been a painful decision to make,” Dave Schecher, board president, said. “A tremendous amount of thought and conversation has ensued to come to this decision. We need to do what will support the mission and legacy of Habitat for Humanity.”
The Fond du Lac ReStore at the current location began in September, 2017. Before the pandemic, the ReStore was a viable operation, providing a service to the community, while also providing employment. Through the years, the Fond du Lac community has provided tremendous support.
“We would like to extend a special thank you to Fond du Lac Area Foundation, Envision Greater Fond du Lac, Sophia Foundation and the Ripon Area United Way for the outreach and support provided to Habitat for Humanity Fond du Lac throughout this Covid-19 Pandemic,” Katie Karls, Habitat for Humanity Fond du Lac affiliate executive director, said. “We are grateful for all the support as Habitat keeps its focus on eradicating homelessness and changing the mindset of poverty-struck communities”.
The Fond du Lac Habitat for Humanity is excited to move forward, amplifying their reach to the surrounding communities. Dialogue is happening to set new dates for the Metomen (Ripon) and Hamilton Street (Fond du Lac) revitalization/preservation projects and planning for the next home builds. Beginning this fall, the local affiliate will be busy working on projects in Ripon, Fond du Lac and Campbellsport.
Information regarding the sale of the building and liquidation of product will be announced publicly in the coming weeks.
For more information on the Fond du Lac Habitat for Humanity or ways you can become involved, please visit http://www.habitatfdl.org/, call 920.921.6623, or email [email protected]
Reprinted with permission.