Overcast skies on a wet Saturday morning didn’t dampen the festivities and ribbon cutting ceremony at the Manatee Habitat ReStore in central Bradenton. Esteemed guests and Manatee County Commissioners Misty Servia and Betsy Benac, and W.L. Che Barnett of the Redevelopment and Economic Opportunity Department helped celebrate the ReStore’s one-year anniversary at its 33,000 sq. ft. space. Hundreds of visitors enjoyed a day of shopping, a fashion show, DIY demos, kids’ crafts, free hot dogs and snow cones, and a pirate’s ship bounce house compliments of Joyland Party Rentals.
The commissioners and Manatee Habitat Board Chair Roger Arnholt and Director of Retail Operations Karen McElroy joined Manatee Habitat CEO Diana Shoemaker for the ribbon cutting ceremony. “We are especially grateful to the community for supporting our store and furthering our efforts to provide affordable housing in Manatee County,” said Shoemaker. “Hundreds of volunteers, our dedicated staff and board, local businesses, donors, and our friends and neighbors make it possible for Manatee Habitat to help hardworking families achieve strength and stability through affordable housing.
The nonprofit home improvement store sells new and gently used furniture, home accessories, building materials, and appliances to the public at a fraction of the retail price. In the past year at its new location, Manatee Habitat ReStore sold over 100,000 items donated by the community. Store revenue helps support the mission of Manatee County Habitat for Humanity as they rehabilitate existing homes and build sustainable, affordable homes for local families.
The Manatee Habitat ReStore, located at 70 and 5108 15th St. E., is open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. For information about donating gently used items and schedule a free pick-up call 941-355-7082. To donate, volunteer, or learn more about Manatee County Habitat for Humanity, visit www.manateehabitat.org