Now, More Than Ever.
Now, More Than Ever.The COVID-19 pandemic has affected everyone in the Greater Harrisburg Area. But, the experience has not been equal for all. While many of your neighbors have grown tired of rearranging their home furniture for the seventh (or was it the ninth?) time…other families are sheltering in unfit, unstable abodes right down the road. Still more are houseless. These neighbors rely on the goodwill of extended family or government aid and take little comfort from a shelter-in-place mandate.
Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope. That mission has always been a vital one; COVID-19 just made it more acute and brought it out into the spotlight. Our local affiliate, Habitat for Humanity of the Greater Harrisburg Area, is devoted to providing a hand up to families in need.
Making that mission happen in a pandemic is not an easy achievement. Here are some ways the ReStore is operating to ensure we do not sacrifice the safety and wellbeing of our supporters.
Shopping
ShoppingOur shop reopened its doors months ago and has not shut them since. Hours have returned to pre-COVID closure; Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 to 5:00. Great deals are still available for the curious and the crafty. But, a few new signs and policies hang around the shop to remind customers about safe browsing techniques. Here are the highlights:
- Masks or face coverings must be worn over the nose and mouth of everyone in the store – no exceptions
- Not able to wear one? We have launched a cyber visit and curbside pickup combo for you to shop from home: https://calendly.com/restoreschedule/cyberviewing
- Not a tech native? Call our team to arrange an early morning shopping trip before the crowds come: (717) 480-5083
- While every square inch of our store is stocked with donated items, we encourage folks to engage with only their eyes…not their hands. We understand needs must at times though; hand sanitizer and disposable gloves are available at the cashier desk.
Our team will do its best to help load and unload large purchases for customers. However, this courtesy will not always be available. We encourage shoppers to bring their own muscle or call ahead to ensure we have enough strong backs on hand to help.
Donating
DonatingThe Donation Center has been the lucky benefactor of many, many folks redecorating, refurnishing, and generally all around redoing their homes. However, these donations must be back traced in the event of a COVID-19 outbreak. Dropping off new gifts can still be done with an appointment. We are even visiting donors homes for harder to obtain items. The breakdown goes like this:
- Do you have a small collection of donation items for us? Something that may fit in the back of your trunk, perhaps? If so, this is the drop-off appointment for you: https://calendly.com/restoreschedule/donation-drop-off-small
- Do you have several large donation items or dozens and dozens of smaller bits and bobs? This is the drop-off appointment for you: https://calendly.com/restoreschedule/donation-drop-off-large
- Do you live in a neighborhood close to us and have appliances, building materials, or cabinets to give but no way to bring them in? Give our team a call or email to see about a pick-up appointment: (717) 480-5083 [email protected]
Face masks are still required outside of the store, too. If you are a donor but unable to wear the face mask, we will handle your donation as a contactless drop-off. Instructions will be provided at your appointment.
Volunteering
VolunteeringStuck and home and looking for a way to improve your handy skillset? Volunteering with Habitat for Humanity is a great way to help your community while learning a thing or two. However, before you sign up for an orientation class, keep these things in mind:
- Our construction projects are primarily focused on exterior work right now; be ready for the weather.
- Habitat for Humanity International is advising against group volunteer days; we are only looking for semi-skilled volunteers able to put in at least eight hours a month.
- Folks more susceptible to COVID-19 and are considered higher risk should not sign up for in person volunteering. However, we are looking for advocates to volunteer with us from home so please consider that as way to get engaged with us.
You don’t have to lift a hammer to help. The mission of safe and affordable shelter for all is a big one. If you find yourself fairing better than most or simply want to support your neighbors, consider giving your time to join our team. Call (717) 480-5083 or email [email protected].