A Safe Return
The Asheville ReStores have received a lot of questions in recent days about the measures we are taking to protect our shoppers, donors, and volunteers (when they return). We are thrilled to have reopened our doors and to continue to support Asheville Habitat’s mission of building homes, communities and hope – because the need for affordable housing has never been greater.
The number one priority of the ReStores right now is to do our part in keeping our customers and our team safe and healthy. We hope the answers to the questions below will reassure our shoppers, donors, and volunteers that their health and safety is our top priority. Some changes may feel more like an inconvenience than a protective measure, but we firmly believe that the safety of all our constituents takes greater priority than convenience in this time. And all inconvenience aside- we are so glad to open our doors to our amazing community once again.
Are masks required at the Asheville ReStores?
Everyone should wear face protection.
How are Asheville ReStores supporting social distancing guidelines?
The ReStores have made clear entrance and exit doors to minimize the traffic going through at any specific time. Arrows are also clearly marking the store floors to direct the flow of foot traffic. The maximum number of shoppers allowed in the ReStores at any given time is being actively regulated and enforced.
Are public restrooms available at the ReStores?
No. Due to the lack of volunteer assistance, our ReStores are currently significantly understaffed. Due to being understaffed, the ReStores are unable to maintain a safe level of cleanliness in our restrooms at this time.
Are carts and dollies being cleaned regularly?
Yes. Clean carts are clearly marked and dirty carts are cleaned regularly and put with the clean carts. Signs direct customers to cleaned carts. There is additional cleaner provided with the carts for customers who desire to clean their own carts.
How are the ReStores ensuring that items on the sales floor are safe to be handled and purchased?
When items are donated to the ReStores, there is a strict protocol in place on how to prepare them for the sales floor. Hard surface items that can be cleaned and disinfected are thoroughly cleaned and put straight on the floor. Upholstered items and items that can’t be cleaned are sent to the basement for 72 hours. Housewares bins are filled full, then set aside for 72 hours from the time they became full and then they are cleaned and processed.
How are the ReStores minimizing human contact with customers and purchased items?
All ReStore registers have Plexiglas dividers to protect customers and cashiers. Cashiers will not touch any items brought to the register for purchase. The ReStore is providing wrapping and bagging stations at each register for customers to package their purchases.
Are ReStore staff still providing assistance loading larger items into vehicles?
The ReStores ask that customers be prepared to load purchased items without assistance from ReStore staff. Staff are able to help bring larger items out to cars, and help load large items into trunks or trailers, but no assistance will be provided loading items into the interior of vehicles.
Are customers still able to leave their purchased items at the ReStore for a maximum of 3 days until transportation can be arranged?
Yes. Once purchased, customers still have 3 days to pick up their items.
Has the procedure for donating items through the donation lane changed?
Yes. The Asheville ReStore asks all customers dropping of items in the donation lane to please remain in their cars. ReStore staff will unload items that the ReStore is able to accept. We appreciate your patience as we move through the donation line as quickly as we are able.
Has the procedure for scheduled truck pick-ups changed?
Yes. The ReStore trucks are currently only picking up items curbside. ReStore truck drivers will not enter anyone’s home to remove items for donation until further notice.
Thank you for your continued support of Asheville Habitat’s mission through your support of the Asheville ReStores. We are grateful for each of our shoppers, donors, and volunteers, and we especially thank you for your cooperation in helping us stay safe and keeping our neighbors safe during this unprecedented time.
