Longtime Downtown Waterville Store Slated to Close Later This Month

For the last decade or so, many Central Maine residents have become familiar with the Re-Store. It's indeed a store, operated by Waterville Area Habitat for Humanity.

Since its inception, the store has sold various pre-loved home-goods and building materials to the general public. The store, which has served the community well in its mission to provide affordable alternatives to brand-new (more expensive) merchandise, will be closing its doors later this month, the Kennebec Journal reported.

According to Waterville Area Habitat for Humanity Executive Director, Peter Phair,

“We recognize that it is a loss to the community and, thankfully, we’re not losing a lot of employees. It’s not a big economic loss to the community, not a lot of salaries involved, but it’s a financial obligation for our organization that requires a significant amount of input financially, and the expectation is that there’ll be at least a break-even point.”

According to their 'about us' section on the Waterville Area Habitat for Humanity website,

Established in 2001, Waterville Area Habitat for Humanity is a locally-managed affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International. WAHFH’s mission is to enhance our community by helping qualified families to become independent owners of decent, affordable homes. WAHFH serves the communities of Albion, Belgrade, Benton, China, Clinton, Fairfield, Oakland, Rome, Smithfield, Unity, Vassalboro, Waterville, and Winslow.

The Kennebec Journal is reporting that the Waterville-based outlet will close its doors permanently on July, 27th. However, Executive Director, Peter Phair, speculates that the 12,000 square foot space won't be empty long, though he wasn't sure which business was likely to take it over.