After 12 years on Salem Avenue in downtown Roanoke, Habitat for Humanity in the Roanoke Valley has moved to 3435 Melrose Ave. NW the former site of All Star Bowling and Voice of the Blue Ridge. The move corresponds with the launch of Habitat’s building in the Melrose/Orange Neighborhood, in partnership with Roanoke City.
“We’re looking forward to becoming a strong part of the community, working with businesses and faith communities as well as the families that we serve”, says Karen Mason, Habitat’s executive director.
Once completed, renovation of the former bowling alley building will provide office space as well as much-needed expansion for the popular ReStore, and allow one-floor climate-controlled shopping for its customers. The ReStore, whose sales help to fund construction, offers new and used furniture, appliances, housewares, plumbing, building supplies, paint and other items and expects to be open to the public for business by the first of October.
Habitat’s neighborhood revitalization, however, is already underway, with construction of six new or rehabbed houses on Hanover, Essex, Loudon and Orange Avenues. Families in line to purchase these homes will move in by the end of the year.
“We’ve loved getting to know the neighbors. Nearly every workday folks have stopped by the sites to welcome us and take a look at what we’re doing,” remarks Brian Clark, Construction director. Habitat is now taking applications for homeownership in the Melrose/Orange neighborhood.
To learn more about qualifying to purchase a home of your own, volunteering to help on the worksites or scheduling a presentation for your church or civic organization, call 540-344-0747 or stop by 3435 Melrose Ave. during business hours, Monday-Friday 9-5.
