Sussex County Habitat for Humanity is planning a large-scale renovation to its Route 9 ReStore near Lewes with a planned opening in 2027.

The nonprofit organization kicked off a fundraising drive called A Home For Habitat April 27, with plans to build a new, two-story addition in what is now a gravel parking lot adjacent to the current ReStore. The addition would double the retail floor space and provide new office space for staff and volunteers, bringing all of Habitat’s operations under one roof. 

Groundbreaking is slated to begin in early May, with construction beginning in the fall. The new ReStore will officially open in fall 2027. The current store will not close during construction, and the whole complex will be finished in winter 2028. 

Kevin Gilmore, CEO of Sussex County Habitat for Humanity, said by expanding the space and consolidating operations, it will better enable the organization to meet its main goal of providing safe, affordable housing for those in need. Profits from the ReStore have helped build two homes per year in Sussex County. 

“The need for safe, decent and affordable housing is everywhere,” Gilmore said. “The need is constant and it's urgent. And yet so is the opportunity to do something about it. This is an exciting opportunity to expand our impact by expanding our home base.”

As of this time, Sussex County Habitat has raised $5 million of the $8 million required to complete the project and is asking the community for help. 

Gilmore said the expansion will improve the experience of customers, donors, volunteers and those the organization serves. 

“This work is bigger than any one of us,” Gilmore said. “This project is our work. It is our commitment to putting faith into action and building not just a structure, but also building hope. This is more than a building project; this is building for the future.”