Habitat ReStore plans to reopen after fire | Main stories

DANVILLE, ILLINOIS. (WAND) — A place meant to help others was nearly destroyed last week.

The Habitat ReStore in Danville caught fire Thursday evening, but only part of the store was damaged.

“We’re very thankful that the fire walls were put in place and they contained the fire in that area,” said Jonathan Gibson, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Danville.

According to the Danville Fire Department, a liquid propane tank is believed to be the cause of the fire, but the investigation is still ongoing. They also estimate the total damage at about $250,000.

“The main thing that’s going on right now is that we’re still trying to figure out where the smoke damage stopped, if there’s anything we can do, which we’re working on today. To remove the smell of smoke from the building and any items that are on showroom floor,” Gibson said.

Hoping for a speedy reopening, the community continues to show its support.

“I go to Habitat almost every day. It’s my happy place. Habitat means a lot, you know in these tough times people can’t afford it,” said Sonja Delarosa, Danville resident.

“We simply wouldn’t exist without the generosity of this community period,” Gibson said.

With the holidays upon us, they are still looking forward to the busiest time of the year.

“We’re actually sorting and evaluating and sort of preparing for Christmas about 10 months out of the year. To lose some of those items that were sorted and priced ready to restock is still heartbreaking,” Gibson said.

Habitat Restore accepts donations. They also have a GoFundMe adjusted to help with damage that cannot be covered. A check can be mailed to:

PO Box 901

Danville, IL 61834.

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