ReStore Reimagined: Habitat for Humanity of York County Unveils a Bold Vision for Community Empowerment
York County, SC — Habitat for Humanity of York County is ushering in an exciting new chapter for its ReStore—one centered on community, connection, and opportunity. Over the coming months, the Rock Hill ReStore will evolve into a vibrant community hub that blends affordable shopping with education, collaboration, and empowerment for families across York County.
This reimagined ReStore will go beyond retail, creating space for hands-on learning, financial education, creative workshops, and deeper community engagement. With new programming, interactive experiences, and expanded services, the Rock Hill ReStore will serve as a place where neighbors gather not just to shop, but to grow together.
“Reimagining the Rock Hill ReStore allows us to bring more value, more engagement, and more impact to the community,” said Tim Veeck, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of York County. “This space will reflect our mission in action—where shopping, learning, and community-building come together to strengthen families and neighborhoods.”
A New Center for Financial Stability and Resilience
A cornerstone of this transformation is the creation of the Financial Opportunity and Resiliency Center (FORC)—a new, welcoming space inside the Rock Hill ReStore designed to equip low-to-moderate income individuals with the tools needed to achieve and sustain affordable homeownership.
Thanks to a $100,000 investment from the Springsteen Foundation via the Foundation for the Carolinas, FORC will undergo essential renovations to allow us to host workshops on budgeting, credit, savings, debt reduction, insurance literacy, and one-on-one financial coaching. It will also provide vital internet access for tasks such as bill payments, job searches, benefit enrollment, and financial management—support that is especially critical for seniors and others who lack reliable internet at home.
In response to growing climate-related risks and rising homeowners insurance costs, FORC will also offer education on disaster preparedness, home resiliency, and insurance literacy—ensuring families are not only prepared to purchase a home, but to protect it long-term.
“FORC is more than a classroom—it’s a foundation for financial independence and lasting opportunity,” said Dr. Stefanie Barnette, Chief Operating Officer. “This space allows us to meet families where they are and walk alongside them as they build stability, confidence, and a stronger future.”
Habitat for Humanity of York County aims to serve at least 500 individuals through FORC in its first year.
Honoring Community Roots, Expanding Community Impact
Since opening in 2019, the Lake Wylie ReStore has been a meaningful part of the community—bringing neighbors together to shop sustainably, donate generously, and volunteer enthusiastically in support of affordable homeownership. Habitat remains deeply rooted in the Lake Wylie area and looks forward to continuing its service across western York County through home repairs, financial education, and community engagement.
As retail operations transition to a redesigned Rock Hill ReStore, Habitat is focused on expanding its reach and deepening its impact—ensuring families across York County continue to have access to the resources, tools, and support they need to thrive. The Lake Wylie ReStore will close on April 6, 2026.
A Space for Community, Creativity, and Collaboration
The reimagined Rock Hill ReStore will feature:
- A refreshed shopping experience
- Community workshops and DIY classes
- Family-friendly events
- Volunteer and donor engagement opportunities
- Financial education programming
- Collaborative community gatherings
With this new vision, Habitat for Humanity of York County is creating a space where affordable homeownership, community engagement, and creativity intersect—a place where neighbors can learn, connect, and grow together.
“We’re building more than a ReStore,” Veeck added. “We’re building a space that reflects who we are as a community—resilient, compassionate, and committed to one another.”
About Habitat for Humanity of York County
Habitat for Humanity of York County is a nonprofit organization that seeks to put God’s love into action by bringing people together to build homes, communities, and hope. HFHYC addresses housing disparities by constructing, rehabilitating, and preserving homes; advocating for fair housing policies; and providing financial literacy education and access to resources so every family has the opportunity to thrive.
For more information about the ReStore, upcoming events, or ways to get involved, visit www.yorkcountyhabitat.org or contact Summersby Okey at sokey@yorkcountyhabitat.org or (803) 982-9828. For service inquiries, call (803) 328-1728 ext. 3 or email services@yorkcountyhabitat.org.