January; the month of beginning again. A new year, a new president, new promises to live more healthy or become more organized -- another year for the chance to "get it right," whatever your personal "it" is. The buds in the trees are still tightly closed, but cold January to me always seems more of a re-birth than spring. This is why I feel like writing about a subject that is, perhaps, more suited for Earth Day.

If you, in your New Year zeal, are cleaning out your attic or garage, or need to buy shelving or cabinets to organize those spaces, consider using Habitat for Humanity ReStore as your source for donating gently used or new items or for purchasing them. The ReStore offers quality building and construction materials, appliances, furniture, and household goods at affordable prices. On the second Saturday of each month, the ReStore opens its warehouse to sell new or vintage construction and building materials, such as cabinets, doors, lumber, etc.

And while you are staying within budget and keeping usable items from the landfill, you are supporting the mission of Habitat for Humanity. Since 1995, proceeds from the ReStore (formerly Habitat Hand-Me-Up) have raised over $600,000 to build Habitat homes in Orange and Durham counties.

These simple and well-built homes are constructed in partnership with hardworking local families, and with generous donors and volunteers. The families, who earn modest incomes, then purchase the homes at an affordable price through a zero percent interest mortgage offered by Habitat for Humanity. Mortgage payments are then used to help provide affordable homeownership to more families in our community.

We all know responsible homeownership has economic benefits, but several studies, including a recent study from UNC's Center for Community Capital, have shown that extending homeownership to lower-income families also strengthens the entire community. For example, lower-income homeowners are more likely to vote or to be involved in their children's school than are lower-income renters.

The New Year is about new beginnings and hope. Begin your new year by shopping, donating, or volunteering at the Habitat for Humanity ReStore. Donations in good condition are tax-deductible, and free pickup is available for most large items. Save resources, save money, build a brighter future for a family, for our community, through homeownership. Reuse, Recycle, ReStore.

Habitat for Humanity ReStore, serving Durham and Orange Counties, 3710 Shannon Road, Durham, NC 27707. Call (919) 403-8668 or email info@restoredurhamorange.org. Or visit www.restoredurhamorange.org to learn more.

Anne-Marie Vanaman is the development director for Habitat for Humanity of Orange County