“Supporting our community is an investment in the well-being and resilience of the place we call home,” says Tracy Wells, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Cincinnati’s (HFHGC) VP of Development and Communications. “By coming together to uplift one another, we create a foundation for shared success, strengthen the bonds that connect us, and cultivate a thriving environment where everyone can flourish.”
Loveland will soon be home to the organization’s sixth ReStore—a discount home improvement store and donation center. ReStores include a variety of new and used building materials, appliances and furniture, but many stores have inventory that expands beyond these three categories. More poignantly, profits generated from ReStores support Habitat’s mission “to build and improve the homes of those in our community,” explains Elayne Harrington, HFHGC’s Communication and Marketing Coordinator.
“When you shop at a ReStore, you’re helping those you call neighbors,” adds Elayne.
“The Habitat ReStore complements the mission of Habitat for Humanity by providing an ongoing source of funding for the organization’s housing initiatives,” Tracy says. In fact, proceeds from all ReStore sales are invested directly back into building and improving homes for families in need, addressing the issue of affordable housing.
“Whether you donate items or shop at a ReStore,” Tracy explains, “you support that mission.”
Tracy also points out that HFHGC has great relationships with big-box retailers and furniture stores, who regularly donate overstock items. “At any time, shoppers can find new, name-brand appliances and furniture,” she notes. “We often post those items on our socials, which is a great place to see the stock of things we believe the public has the most interest in.”
It’s the region’s largest nonprofit homebuilder—HFHGC serves Butler, Warren, Hamilton and Clermont counties in Ohio; Boone, Kenton and Campbell counties in Kentucky; and Dearborn and Ohio counties in Indiana.
“While Habitat for Humanity provides affordable housing solutions, it doesn’t simply give away homes for free,” Tracy explains, addressing a common misconception. “Partner families work alongside volunteers to build their homes and pay an affordable mortgage. We give a hand up, not a handout.”
The organization’s newest ReStore location is one that’s been planned for a while now.
“We’ve been looking on the east side of Cincinnati for several years to find just the right location,” says Steve Wilt, ReStore director. “The new Loveland ReStore will have a fresh, updated look but with the same great prices. The new ReStore will also highlight and provide information about all the services that Habitat for Humanity of Greater Cincinnati offers.”
According to HFHGC, a decent, affordable home truly adds up—kids are 25% more likely to graduate from high school, and 116% more likely to get a college degree. They’ll earn, on average, an income that is 100% higher than a child raised in a rented home. They’re 59% more likely to be a homeowner themselves in 10 years, and their family income is 100% higher. That’s an equation for success—and sustainability—that simply cannot be ignored.
Last year, the revenue from just five ReStore locations allowed HFHGC to build four homes, Tracy offers. Noting that the homes are built in partnership with hard-working low-to-moderate-income families whose housing costs exceed 30% of their income. ReStores also proudly kept 4.7 million pounds of material out of landfills during fiscal year 2023.
“In supporting our community, we contribute to a collective legacy of compassion, unity and progress—leaving a lasting impact for generations to come,” Tracy says proudly.
In Loveland, the generosity of a community ready to embrace HFHGC’s mission has already been noted.
“We’d like to give a sincere thank you to all those who’ve volunteered to help get the Loveland ReStore up and running,” Steve smiles. “Loveland has been very supportive, friendly and helpful—it’s an honor and a privilege to serve and be a part of this community.”
HabitatCincinnati.org/ReStore | 10681 Loveland Madeira Rd, Loveland
When you shop at a ReStore, you’re helping those you call neighbors.
- Elayne Harrington
In supporting our community, we contribute to a collective legacy of compassion, unity and progress—leaving a lasting impact for generations to come.
- Tracy Wells
