WESTMINSTER, Md. — Images from past projects represent the modest pace of progress for Habitat for Humanity in Carroll County, but Building Director Scott Swartz says the key to the organization’s future may lie in plans for almost 25,000 square feet of space vacated by the Westminster Antique Mall.
“We’ve been looking for a space actually since the end of last year and we did find out that this property was available at that time,” said Swartz.
The rooms are empty for now, but picture what you might find in a traditional thrift store on steroids.
Habitat’s ReStore will sell gently used furniture appliances, home accessories and building materials at a fraction of the retail price.
The money raised will boost the building pace of the organization and will help bankroll low-to-no cost loans.
“Right now, we’re probably building about one house every other year or a rehab,” said Swartz. “We’re hoping after this we’re doing at the minimal, one a year and hopefully, within five years, we’re up to at least five a year. That’s our hope.”
It’s a hope shared by people who for now can only dream of owning their own home until the day comes when it finally becomes a reality.
“Seeing that time, and I got the privilege last time handing over the key to the new homeowner and it’s just a priceless feeling,” said Swartz.
Habitat hopes its renovations for this new ReStore on Hahn Road will be completed by February or March of next year.
