History of the ReStore
The Bend ReStore is one of over 700 stores and counting, operated in four countries by local Habitat for Humanity Affiliates.
The Bend ReStore opened in 1997 at Pakit Liquidators. Pat Korish, Pakit's owner, gave the ReStore its start when he designated 500 square feet of his own retail space to Habitat to accept and sell donations of new and used building supplies and household goods. At that time Korish charged a consignment fee to handle the business. Minimal volunteer help was needed. The community heartily responded to Habitat's efforts and in 1999 the ReStore moved into a 1200 square foot warehouse adjacent to and owned by Pakit.
Along with the expansion came the need for a store manager who could oversee the burgeoning business. Dianne Crocker, a retired Licensed Vocational Nurse was hired halftime. She quickly organized, merchandised and implemented a business plan and started working 32 hours. Under her direction, the business experienced continuous growth, which brought about the need for even more room. The search began for a new location. We had grown from a "Mom and Pops" operation making $100.00 per day to where we are today averaging $1,500.00 per day. We started with one employee and a handful of volunteers, and now employ seven staff members and have over 35 volunteers.
In July of 2002, a local financier purchased 12,000 sq. feet of covered warehouse space with the intent to lease it to ReStore with an option to buy. The warehouse provided space for a kitchen and break room, offices for staff, a Receiving Area to clean, test, and price merchandise, out buildings for larger items and a place for our Home Store. ReStore immediately leased the space taking full advantage of this new room to grow. And grow it did... four years later, with the tremendous support of our community, BAHFH was able to purchase the warehouse so that by the end of 2006 ReStore was able to channel even more funds directly into building homes. ReStore now has acquired 7,000 more sq. feet of space across the street for lumber, windows, doors, flooring, vinyl, carpeting, insulation, pavers joist hangers, etc.
The success of the ReStore is a credit to the community. Local suppliers, businesses, contractors and homeowners are increasingly generous in donating new and used materials. Habitat families, putting in their "sweat equity" hours; local volunteers; organizations, including the National Guard Oregon Youth Challenge Program and Heart of Oregon; and community service workers help staff the store and process donations.
