KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Habitat for Humanity KC is ready to get home construction projects back on track. The charity lost some $12,000 worth of tools in a major theft six weeks ago, but community response is getting the charity back on its feet.
Last month, Habitat had to turn away volunteers, and home construction was seriously delayed after thieves broke into Habitat’s gated warehouse and cleaned out all the construction equipment from two trucks and trailers.
“That jeopardized us getting our homes built, how quickly we could get it done,” said Lindsay Hicks, development manager for Habitat KC. “It impacted how many volunteers we could have on site at a time.”
She says it also hurt many of Habitat’s families, who had planned to move in on certain dates, but the delayed construction means their move in days are delayed too. But now, volunteers are back to work. Turns out a representative from Stanley saw FOX 4’s story and knew his company had to help. Stanley donated $12,000 dollars worth of tools to Habitat, everything from power tools to hand tools.
“We tried to match exactly what was lost in the theft and help them get back on their feet as quickly as possible because we understand when you’re out of tools you’re out of work,” said Ed Meltzer, global director for Stanley.
Habitat says it’s fully back on its feet now thanks to Stanley, a Lake Waukomis community tool drive and donations from some very kind individuals.
“One gentleman was recently diagnosed with cancer and one of his hobbies and past time was building and he could no longer build because of his cancer, so he donated all his tools to Habitat for Humanity,” said Hicks. “We’re all one community together and it’s great to see people want to support Habitat and want to see the urban core be revitalized.”
Habitat says now that it has all the tools they need they just need some more volunteers. They’re trying to get caught up and get families into their homes soon so contact Habitat if you are interested in volunteering, visit habitatkc.org.