'Thrift Store That Builds Homes' expands

Habitat for Humanity of North Idaho is celebrating the expansion of The ReStore, a thrift store that funds most of the organization’s affordable housing and home repair programs in Kootenai County. 

Located at 176 W. Wyoming Ave. in Hayden, The ReStore offers donated new and used items including furniture, appliances, clothing, hardware, tools, lumber, paint and home goods. 

The 12,000-square-foot building housed both The ReStore and Habitat’s administrative offices, but the nonprofit recently moved its business office to 7950 N. Meadowlark Way in Coeur d’Alene. 

By remodeling the vacant office space, The ReStore was able to add 2,500 square feet to the retail floor. 

ReStore Manager Teresa Roberts said the new space will allow The ReStore to sell more furniture and clothing. Three dressing rooms were built and makeshift shelving throughout the store has been replaced by new shelving from a retailer that went out of business. 

“It looks so much nicer,” Roberts said. 

The ReStore raises upward of $300,000 a year for Habitat’s home building and A Brush With Kindness home repair program. 

In 2024, Habitat completed construction on the first units in a Coeur d’Alene development that will provide homes for 21 families. Prospective homeowners must have satisfactory credit, stable income, the ability to pay a monthly mortgage and complete financial education classes. 

There is also a “sweat equity” requirement that candidates must complete by volunteering at the construction site or The ReStore. 

“With rent prices continuing to escalate, it is harder than ever for families to save for a down payment and afford a monthly mortgage at market rates,” said James Casper, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of North Idaho. “Proceeds from The ReStore help us increase affordable housing and provide critical home repairs throughout Kootenai County.”

The ReStore opened in 2001 in a red barn at the corner of 16th Street and Hanley Avenue in Coeur d’Alene. After two years of bustling business, the ReStore outgrew the space and moved to its current location. 

The thrift store employs 10 full-time and part-time employees with additional help from volunteers. 

The ReStore also sells antiques and vintage items, lighting, bathroom fixtures, designer shoes and clothing, jewelry and collectibles on eBay.

“We are always looking for volunteers and accepting donations,” Roberts said. 

The ReStore is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Items can be donated at The ReStore and pickup is available for large items.