Habitat for Humanity of Craven County is pleased to announce the receipt of a grant award in the amount of $30,000 from the Cannon Foundation to support the renovation project of the ReStore facility at 930 Pollock Street, New Bern.
The Cannon Foundation, located in Concord, NC was established in 1943 by Charles A. Cannon, President and Chairman of Cannon Mills Company for more than 50 years. Charles A. Cannon was a man of many facets. A humanitarian and world-renowned industrialist, he strongly believed in the benefits that free enterprise conferred upon society. He knew that a life well lived was a life that benefited employees and co-workers, peers, the local community and the nation at large. These attributes were the reason for his success and serve as philanthropic guidelines for the Cannon Foundation today.
“This grant of $30,000 is a significant contribution to our ambitious plans to upgrade our ReStore which has been in operation since 1981,” said Habitat Executive Director Mark Beard. “These funds have been designated for a redesign of the building’s exterior façade which will make a dramatic difference to our appearance on Pollock Street.” Other components of the project include the installation of handicapped bathroom facilities and a new energy efficient HVAC system. Upgrades to the outdoor lighting and security cameras have already been completed. The construction work for both the exterior and interior of the building is expected to begin during the month of July. “We’ve been looking forward to these renovations for a long time and know they will improve the overall efficiencies of the ReStore facility as well as enhance the shopping experience for our customers,” said Beard.
Through the donation of appliances, furniture, household items and other acceptable items, the ReStore is able to resell the inventory at significantly discounted prices to the public. Proceeds from these sales generate additional revenue to support the construction of safe and affordable homes for qualifying partner families in Craven County.
The renovation of Habitat’s ReStore will also enhance the 900 block of Pollock Street which is adjacent to the Five Points section of Uptown and the designated Choice Neighborhoods area. Improvements to the building façade and exterior including the addition of a wrought iron fence will ultimately enhance New Bern’s gateway and the surrounding neighborhoods. Habitat hopes the ReStore Renovation Project will serve as an incentive to other property owners to also improve their properties.
Since it was established in 1989, Habitat Craven County has partnered with qualifying families in the building of their own homes. The dedication of Habitat home #61 at 854 Howard Street was celebrated on Saturday, June 25 at 2:00 pm. Construction of Habitat Craven County’s 62nd home is now under construction.
Through shelter, Habitat helps families achieve the strength, stability and self-reliance they need to build better lives and contribute to their community. For more information, contact CravenCountyHabitat.org or visit Habitat.org.
Submitted by: Deedra Durocher, Habitat for Humanity of Craven County