Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties to close ReStores, suspend volunteer activities

FORT MYERS, Fla. - March 20, 2020 - PRLog -- Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties is taking proactive measures to combat the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) by suspending all volunteer activities while also closing its four Habitat ReStores.

Administrative offices in North Fort Myers also have been closed.

Habitat's ReStores in Bonita Springs, Fort Myers, South Fort Myers and North Fort Myers will close to the public at 5 p.m. on Saturday, March 21. No reopening date has been set.

"Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties has been closely monitoring the escalations surrounding the coronavirus pandemic," Habitat CEO Becky Lucas said. "We believe now is the time for our organization to do even more to protect our team, our Habitat homeowners and future homeowners, and the community for whom we care deeply."

Additional steps being taken include encouraging administrative staff to work remotely, safely accommodating Habitat's construction team by implementing recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and providing alternative employment opportunities for ReStore staff to ensure no one misses a paycheck.

The comings days and weeks will pose many challenges for families, businesses and organizations in Southwest Florida and throughout the country.

"Unfortunately, those who are most physically and economically vulnerable will experience the brunt of the COVID-19 pandemic," Lucas said. "As an organization dedicated to serving low-income families with affordable homeownership, we recognize that a significant number of Habitat households will experience pandemic-related income and/or job loss."

Many homeowners are concerned about providing for their families and covering mortgage payments during uncertain times. Habitat for Humanity is committed to working with each family to develop solutions that align with the organizational mission to put God's love into action by bringing people together to build homes, communities and hope.

"Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties will continue serving low-income families with affordable homeownership opportunities, but we need your financial support to sustain these efforts," said Lucas, adding that Habitat's secure online portal at Habitat4Humanity.org/donate offers a convenient option for those who are able to donate. "Together, we can create a world where everyone has a decent place to live."

About Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties

Since 1982, 1,600 families in need of a hand up have partnered with Habitat Lee and Hendry to build or improve their home. Habitat homeowners, alongside volunteers, help build their own home and pay an affordable mortgage. Through volunteering, financial or material donations, everyone can help Lee and Hendry county families achieve strength, stability and independence. Through shelter, we empower. For more information, visit www.Habitat4Humanity.org.