Most of you know about Habitat for Humanity, an amazing, nonprofit housing organization that has built more than 300,000 homes around the world.  But did you know that Habitat for Humanity also operates retail outlets called “Habitat ReStores” where top-notch used and surplus building materials are sold to the public for a fraction of their actual value?

The proceeds from the ReStores are used to fund the construction of new Habitat for Humanity homes within the community.  Habitat estimates that at least 10 or more houses are built each year from the proceeds raised at the ReStores.  How great is that??

There are ReStores located all over the US and Canada – just click here to find one near you in the US, and here for ReStores in Canada.  Here are examples of just a few of the awesome finds at the Dallas-area ReStore:

These great building supplies are donated to the ReStores by all kinds of building supply stores, contractors, demolition crews and individuals just like you and me – so these ReStores are not just a great opportunity for you to find affordable building materials, but you can also help Habitat’s cause by contacting them to donate your used appliances and other building materials that are still in great shape.

The Dallas-area ReStore accepts “overstocked items, seconds, used, discontinued and salvageable building materials, home improvement items, and major appliances donated by builders, contractors, manufacturers and individuals.  Donated materials are used whenever possible in the construction of Dallas Area Habitat homes.  The remainder are sold at discounted prices with profits used to fund construction efforts for Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity.”  In some cases, Habitat will even pick up your donated items.

So instead of selling that old fridge on Craigslist or putting it out for bulk trash pickup, wouldn’t it feel great to donate it to an awesome organization like Habitat?  Click here for more info and guidelines on donating to the Dallas-area ReStore.

What awesome steals have you found at discount outlets like the ReStores?  Do you have a favorite charity that you like to donate to?  I’d love to hear about it!!

Images courtesy of Habitat for Humanity. And thanks to Jen for bringing the ReStores to my attention!