The Nanaimo ReStore has a new coat of paint and much more space. (Facebook/Habitat for Humanity)

By Spencer Sterritt

upcycling

Nanaimo ReStore expanding as donations flood in during pandemic

May 3, 2021 | 5:30 AM

NANAIMO — A valuable spot for donated goods and furniture is getting a freshcoat of paint and much more.

Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore is expanding within its existing complex on the corner of Mostar Rd. and Boban Dr. A new space, where the Salvation Army Thrift Store used to be, opens on Monday, May 3. Their existing space will remain open.

Dawn McHarg, ReStore manager, told NanaimoNewsNOW they realized expansion was needed as donations and sales flooded in during the pandemic.

“When COVID hit, a lot of people didn’t go out to buy new stuff. They were looking for different ways to do things. We want to be able to salvage as much as possible and keep as much out of the landfill.”

The new space is specifically used for new workshops and efforts to upcycle more items.

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McHarg said they want to help people turn good furniture into great furniture and prevent items from getting thrown away. Personal workspaces and storage will be available for those who don’t have the space at home to work on such large projects.

Providing storage space to rent and more opportunities to sell old furniture and housing supplies will also boost other Habitat for Humanity projects.

A townhouse complex is currently planned for the corner of Albert St. and Pine St., with construction expected to begin some time in the near future.

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spencer@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @SpencerSterritt