We are thrilled to welcome the LARGEST Habitat for Humanity ReStore in the Kansas City region to Martin City! The old Newco Manufacturing building has been transformed into a warehouse store where Habitat sells gently used appliances, furniture, home accessories, and building materials to the public for discounted prices. Sales profits go toward Habitat for Humanity’s mission of helping low to medium income families find affordable housing in Kansas City.
Carrie Wilson, Habitat for Humanity KC’s ReStore Marketing Manager said their largest location was in Deramus and it’s been highly successful so Habitat is moving toward a large store strategy. “The Newco building in Martin City was the perfect location because it’s the same model as Duramus,” said Wilson. “And it’s close to some of the wealthier communities so we’ve received some great donations!”
ReStore accepts materials that are reusable and functional without any major damage. Donations must be items that could be used “as is” in the condition they’re in when they’re donated. These could be appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves, and water heaters. Other donatable items include carpet, cabinets, bathtubs, doors, drywall, and furniture.
Habitat KC’s management said they plan to continue improvements to the warehouse and intend to construct a paved area outside the south entrance of the store to make it easier for freight sized trucks to pick up and make deliveries. They’ve already installed new commercial garage doors to keep up with deliveries and know they will need additional outside storage for large outdoor items.
One of the great things about the Martin City ReStore location is the partnership with the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). NARI members are in the process of creating a NARI Certified Apprentice program and an Associate’s Degree Program with community colleges and a portion of the Martin City ReStore will become dedicated classroom space so they can offer the program and train onsite.
A Futures Fund has been created to raise money for the initiative as well as a Workforce Development Committee to facilitate the mission. A portion of the proceeds from NARI’s recent Remodeled Homes Tour also went to Habitat for Humanity KC ReStores.
Thank you to all the South Kansas City Chamber members, Martin City businesses, city leaders, and community supporters who came out to welcome Habitat ReStore to Martin City. We especially want to thank the Martin City Brewing Company, Jack Stack Barbecue, and Rosehill Gardens for donating food and flowers for the grand opening party!
If you haven’t had a chance to visit, please stop by and say hello! If you have donations, you may drop them off Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and on Saturday until 4:00 PM, or make an appointment with ReStore to have your items picked up. For more information, please visit ReStore’s website.
