VERO BEACH — Everyone is invited to celebrate World Habitat Day with the Indian River Habitat for Humanity Home Center ReStore from Oct. 1-15 with special discounts and new, convenient hours.
Now open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the ReStore makes shopping and donating really convenient. It is important to remember that all proceeds from the ReStore help Habitat provide more homes for families in need right here in Indian River County.
The United Nations General Assembly has declared the first Monday in October to be World Habitat Day, “a day of grassroots action to advocate for universal, decent housing.”
Habitat affiliates worldwide hold events throughout the month of October to remind people of the basic need for adequate shelter in a world where it is lacking for so many and to inspire action to address that need.
An estimated 3 million people in the United States are homeless, one-third of whom are children. Habitat believes that helping families acquire a simple, decent home is key to breaking this cycle of poverty and generational homelessness.
In Indian River County, 6,590 households pay more than 35% of their income for rent. The average rental on a 2-bedroom apartment at fair market value is $872/month, requiring an annual income of $34,880. At the current minimum wage of $7.79/hour, an individual would need to work 88 hours a week.
By building fewer homes (11) and repairing, refurbishing, and recycling more, Indian River Habitat will be able to serve 55 families in FY 2014, five more than in FY 2013.
Between Oct. 1 and 15, the ReStore offers World Habitat Day tee-shirts for $10 and sturdy tote bags for $5. You can also purchase a pledge sticker for $3, write your name on it, and show everyone you care. The stickers will be prominently displayed in the ReStore.
The popular Silent Auction returns from Oct. 17 through Nov. 7.
The Home Center ReStore always welcomes donations of furniture, appliances, home décor, building materials, and electronics. Pick-up is available by appointment.
The ReStore is located at 4580 N. U.S 1, east side, just past the 45th St. intersection.
For more information, please call (772) 562-9860 ext. 215 or (772) 257-0222.