CHICAGO HEIGHTS | Saturday's grand opening of a ReStore at 180 W. Joe Orr Road enabled shoppers to save money and contribute to a good cause.

Money generated by the store, which opened for business earlier this year, will go to constructing Habitat for Humanity homes.

"Our goal is, by the end of next year, to have enough revenue to build a home," said David Tracy, executive director for Habitat for Humanity Chicago South Suburbs.

About $90,000 will be needed for construction. Three homes are currently being built in Riverdale, while two were dedicated in Harvey this year.

The ReStore sells new and gently used merchandise, with kitchen cabinets, appliances and furniture among the most popular and fastest-selling items.

Tracy said that new merchandise is donated from retailers as a result of close-outs.

On Saturday, the store displayed shelving donated from Lowe's, as well as many new light fixtures.

"The prices are unbelievable," Tracy said. "We really are enforcing the requirement that anything we bring in that's gently used, that it be in good shape."

Charlotte Herr, of St. John, has been a regular customer since the store's opening.

She has purchased items including sinks and doors, both new and used.

"I just found so many values," Herr said. "We're doing some upgrading in our house, and I have found that I have saved really half of what I would have been purchasing things for."

South Holland resident Barbara Schurke normally volunteers at the store on Thursdays, but came on Saturday for the grand opening celebration.

"People need something like this, and I feel that it's important that we give them that opportunity," Schurke said.

Herr hoped publicity from the grand opening would not ruin a good thing for her.

"This is a great store. I hate for everyone to find out about this store because I feel like I won't get my great deals," she said with a laugh.

Those who wish to donate items to the ReStore can call (708) 755-1840 to arrange for pickup.

The ReStore is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays.