Habitat ReStore reopens in North Fort Myers after Hurricane Ian restoration

Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties has reopened its North Fort Myers ReStore following extensive renovations due to damage caused by Hurricane Ian. During the grand reopening, the store saw more than triple its average day of purchases, generating the highest revenue ever for a single ReStore in Lee County.

The ReStore marked the significant milestone with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Feb. 2, when community members, volunteers and staff gathered to celebrate the occasion. The large turnout of supporters signaled a new beginning for the ReStore and the community it serves. Known for being the first and largest ReStore in Lee County, the North Fort Myers location suffered severe hurricane damage, including a damaged roof and complete inventory loss. The community’s support was vital as the ReStore initiated a call for donations to help replenish the inventory in anticipation of its grand reopening.

“We are overwhelmed by the turnout and support we received, which speaks volumes about not only Habitat’s mission but also the community’s resilience and commitment to helping one another,” said Becky Lucas, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties. “Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to everyone who has contributed to our recovery and reopening. This support profoundly impacts local families seeking affordable housing.”

The North Fort Myers location features more than 29,000 square feet of retail space and serves the community by selling donated household items and building materials at a fraction of the cost. The ReStore plays a critical role in funding Habitat’s mission, with 100% of proceeds going toward local home building efforts.

The ReStore continues to welcome donations of new and gently used items such as furniture, appliances, building supplies and home decor, which will help the North Fort Myers store rebuild and sustain its inventory, as well as support Habitat’s mission in Lee and Hendry counties.

Located at 31 Willis Road, the North Fort Myers ReStore is open to customers from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays, with the donation drop off from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information or to schedule a large donation pickup, visit ReStoreLee.org or call 239-652-0388.

About Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties

Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties is a faith-based private nonprofit serving families with a housing need willing to partner. As a developer, builder, mortgage lender, housing counseling agency, retail operator and hurricane recovery organization, Habitat partners with families to build, improve or retain places to call home. Since 1982, Habitat has partnered with more than 1,800 families to help them achieve their dream of affordable homeownership. In addition to putting in 300 hours of sweat equity into building their own homes, Habitat Homebuyers contribute to their closing costs, attend more than 20 hours of financial education classes, and pay an affordable mortgage set at no more than 30% of their monthly income. Through volunteering and providing financial or material donations, everyone can help Lee and Hendry County families achieve strength, stability, and independence. For more information, visit Habitat4Humanity.org.