July 14, 2026 9p
(WGTD)---The last several years has been a period of great change and expansion for the non-profit Habitat for Humanity of Racine and Kenosha.
For one thing, the two cities operated their own ‘Habitat’ chapters up until a year-and-a-half ago. Grant Buenger, the CEO of the now merged agencies, told Community Matter co-host Marsha Connet recently that the envisioned operational efficiencies have been achieved. "It took a couple of years to convince the board...that this is what we wanted to do and it would be okay," he said. "Everybody bought in."
The combined non-profit now builds about ten houses a year in the Racine/Kenosha area.
Another change has been the opening of a larger ‘restore.’ The new store featuring mostly gently-used merchandise and other items in good repair is located in a former Piggly Wiggly in the West Racine neighborhood.
The top seller is furniture, but the store offers many other things, including appliances, building materials, landscaping supplies, lighting and used power tools. The proceeds support Habitat's work.
Donations are accepted from individuals and businesses alike. A top business donor is Uline, Buenger said.
The new store was made possible with a $1 million grant from CNH.
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