FORT PIERCE — After years of operating thrift-style outlets that helped fund local housing projects, Habitat for Humanity of St. Lucie & Okeechobee (HFHSLO) closed both of its ReStore locations in Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie on Nov. 22, 2025, marking the end of a long-running program that has been a familiar presence for many local residents.
Habitat ReStores were designed to accept donated furniture, appliances, building materials, and home goods, which were then sold to the public at discounted prices. Proceeds supported Habitat’s mission of building affordable homes and completing critical repairs for families in need across St. Lucie and Okeechobee counties. For many years, the model proved successful, benefiting both shoppers and the organization’s housing programs.
In recent years, however, HFHSLO has seen a steady decline in ReStore donations, customer traffic, and revenue. According to the organization, the growth of online resale marketplaces has changed how people donate and shop for secondhand goods, making it increasingly difficult for brick-and-mortar ReStores to remain financially sustainable. At the same time, operational expenses such as staffing, utilities, and facility costs have continued to rise…