Neighborhood Nonprofit Spotlight: Martha Cerna, PDX Habitat for Humanity Restore

Patch: Tell Patch a little about you and your organization!

Martha: Habitat for Humanity believes everyone deserves to live in decent, affordable housing. We work in partnership with hardworking, low-income families to build safe and sustainable Habitat homes. The Habitat ReStore raises money for Habitat by selling donated new and used furniture, appliances, building materials and home goods. Each year we divert millions of pounds of materials from area landfills and we keep home improvement products super affordable for all income levels. We work with state and local agencies to provide job-training and mentoring opportunities.

Patch: When did you open?

Martha: 2002

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Patch: What is the biggest struggle your organization faces?

Martha: We rely on donations from individuals and businesses to stock our shelves. Awareness: Many people don't realize we are open to the public.

Patch: What do you hope for the future of your nonprofit?

Martha: Our future includes expansion! With the advent of Portland's deconstruction ordinance, more salvaged materials will be available for resale in this market. There is also a growing awareness and interest in the importance of reuse. The Portland/Vancouver Metro ReStores are perfectly positioned to channel salvaged materials to homeowners and others interested in building and furnishing with affordable quality new and used product. Purchasing at The ReStore is an effective way to save money and support reuse while contributing to Habitat home-building projects.

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