news
We have our 50/50 Raffle winner!
Our 2025 50/50 Raffle has come to a close, raising $25,000 for our affordable homeownership program, as well as being a $25,000 jackpot for lucky ticket holder D-11296. Winner Lori T is as thankful and overjoyed as we are and it’s perfect timing to celebrate an amazing holiday season. Thank you again to all ticket buyers for believing in what we do in Edmonton and surrounding communities. Working with you, we’re able to help more hard-working Albertans become homeowners. See you next raffle!
Save 25% off everything at ReStore on Black Friday!
Black Friday is on November 28, and all six ReStores are offering 25% off everything in store. Whether you’re hunting for furniture, appliances, building supplies, décor, or something unexpected, it’s a great day to shop smart. ReStore deals also come with a real benefit: every purchase supports Habitat for Humanity Edmonton’s homeownership program. When you shop ReStore, you’re not just getting a great price — you’re helping local families and individuals take steps toward owning a home. If you’re planning to drop by, come early, explore a new location, and keep an open mind. ReStore stock changes constantly, and the best finds tend to disappear fast!
The future your legacy can build
When Lyndsay first stepped into her Habitat home, she realized she felt something unfamiliar: peace of mind. “The biggest difference overall is that general sense of security,” she said. “Just knowing that it’s ours and we make all the decisions – it’s been really comforting for our family.” Before homeownership, Lyndsay and her children faced the uncertainty of unsafe and unaffordable rentals. They moved often, carried constant stress, and longed for stability. Today, their home is more than just a roof – it’s the foundation for a hopeful future. How Legacy Giving Builds Futures Stories like Lyndsay’s are made possible because people choose to act on their belief that everyone deserves safe a home of their own. Some make that commitment through volunteering or donating. Others make the decision to carry their values forward through legacy giving. A legacy gift is a donation left in your will or estate plan. It could be a specific amount, a percentage of your estate, or an asset such as property or investments. Whatever the form, it ensures Albertans like Lyndsay’s will continue to experience the stability of homeownership for generations to come. Research confirms the ripple effects. Habitat homeowners report better mental health, stronger finances and brighter educational outcomes for their children. On average, household incomes rise by $7,525 per year – three times higher than if they had continued renting. Your Legacy, Their Tomorrow A legacy gift is more than the financial benefit — it’s sharing your values – social equity, compassion and hope for the future. By making affordable homeownership part of your legacy, you’re giving more families the same chance Lyndsay’s family has today: to grow, to thrive and to dream. Together, we build a better future. Learn more at hfh.org/legacy
A practical guide: How to include Habitat in your will
Leaving a legacy gift is one of the most meaningful ways to ensure hard-working families and individuals in our community can create long-term stability through homeownership. While it may sound complicated, including Habitat in your will is usually straightforward. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide: Step 1: Reflect on your values. Think about the impact you want your legacy to have. If you believe that homeownership is the key to creating lasting stability for Albertans, a gift in your will to Habitat can make that vision a reality. Step 2: Decide what kind of gift works best for you. Legacy gifts can take many forms: Step 3: Talk with your family. Legacy giving doesn’t replace caring for loved ones – it comes after. Have an open conversation with family members so they understand your wishes and values. Step 4: Meet with your lawyer or advisor. A professional can help you add Habitat to your will with a short clause. It’s not expensive or difficult, and you can update it anytime as your life changes. Step 5: Let us know. If you choose to leave a gift to Habitat, we’d love to thank you and ensure your wishes are clear. While it isn’t legally required to tell us, it helps us honour your intentions and include you in our community of legacy donors. Legacy Giving is more than a legal step – it’s hope for a better future. Together, we build homes, communities, and hope. Learn more at hfh.org/legacy
The 5 most important questions about legacy giving answered
We’re often asked about legacy giving — what it is, how it works, and who it’s for. Here are five of the most important questions answered: 1. What is legacy giving? Legacy giving means leaving a gift in your will or estate plan. It could be money, property, investments or other assets. 2. Do I have to be wealthy? Not at all. Legacy giving is about values, not wealth. Every gift, large or small, makes a difference. Even 1% of your estate will meaningfully support affordable homeownership in our community. 3. Will my family be taken care of first? Yes. Your loved ones always come first. A legacy gift comes after those commitments are met. 4. How will my gift be used? Legacy gifts support us to build safe, affordable homes and stronger communities. Legacies provide long-term stability so we can plan ahead and serve more Albertans for years to come. 5. Is it complicated to set up? Not usually. Adding a clause to your will with the help of a lawyer or advisor can be simple and straightforward. And you can update it anytime as life changes. Legacy giving is more than generosity — it’s a statement of hope for the future. By making Habitat part of your legacy, you help ensure that families and individuals for generations to come can thrive through homeownership. Learn more at hfh.org/legacy
Habitat for Humanity Edmonton celebrates World Habitat Day with Volunteer Gala
For Immediate ReleaseOctober 6, 2025 EDMONTON, ALBERTA – Habitat for Humanity Edmonton marked World Habitat Day by hosting a Volunteer Gala this evening at the Chateau Louis, celebrating the dedication of more than 150 volunteers whose time and energy drive Habitat’s work across the region. World Habitat Day, recognized by the United Nations every year on the first Monday of October, calls attention to the state of our towns and cities and to the basic right of everyone to adequate shelter. The evening included speeches from community leaders, homeowners, and long-time volunteers, followed by an award ceremony honouring standout volunteers who have gone above and beyond in their service. “World Habitat Day is a reminder that the way we plan and build our cities directly affects the quality of life of its residents. Habitat for Humanity Edmonton is committed to building homeownership opportunities for hard-working Albertans and to supporting a strong and stable future in our province. Today we celebrate our many volunteers who dedicate their time to drive the work we do forward. We are profoundly grateful for their service and the lasting impact they have in our community — building homes, communities, and hope for generations to come.”– Dr. Ann-Marie Reddy, President & CEO, Habitat for Humanity Edmonton A key highlight of the evening was the recognition of Servus Credit Union, the official sponsor of Habitat Edmonton’s volunteer program. Servus has generously contributed $50,000 from 2023 – 2025 to ensure that volunteers are trained, supported, and celebrated for their essential roles. “At Servus Credit Union, we believe strong communities are built when people come together to support one another. Volunteerism is at the heart of that, and we are proud to partner with Habitat to empower volunteers who are making a meaningful difference in people’s lives and helping create safe, stable homes for families.”– Stephanie MacMillan, Business Development Manager, Servus Credit Union Also in attendance was Rakhi Pancholi, MLA for Edmonton-Whitemud, who shared remarks on the importance of community-driven efforts to strengthen neighbourhoods. “There is no better antidote to feelings of disconnection than to get out and volunteer. As a lifelong volunteer myself, I know how much purpose, joy, and satisfaction it brings. It’s why I am proud to join Habitat for Humanity Edmonton in celebrating their amazing volunteers. These volunteers understand that making our community a better place is a responsibility we all share, and I’m proud to celebrate them for that.” – Rakhi Pancholi, MLA for Edmonton-Whitemud Habitat homeowner Allison Asare, a single mother of two, spoke at the event, sharing her journey to homeownership and thanking the volunteers whose dedication made it possible. “You haven’t just changed my life and the lives of my children — you’ve shown us the power of a community that lifts each other up. That gift of hope is something we will carry with us forever.”– Allison Asare, Habitat homeowner Finally, the gala recognized longtime volunteer Reno Laseur, who received the King’s Coronation Medal earlier this year for his dedicated service to Habitat Edmonton. Reno also spoke at the event, reflecting on his years of volunteering: “I tell almost everyone I meet that I am a proud volunteer at Habitat for Humanity… The good people at Habitat always make me feel welcome and appreciated.”– Reno Laseur, longtime volunteer The evening closed with gratitude for the countless volunteers whose dedication ensures Habitat can continue to build homes, communities, and hope across northern Alberta. – 30 – Media inquiries, please contact: Afarin Mirzadehcommunications@hfh.orgcell: 604-363-4077 About Habitat for Humanity Edmonton Habitat for Humanity Edmonton builds homes, communities, and hope through affordable homeownership. It is the only charity in the region that provides a path to homeownership for hard-working people who have been shut out of the market. Habitat Edmonton is not social housing and does not give away homes — it empowers Albertans to purchase and own their homes, creating stability and generational change. Habitat Edmonton also operates six ReStores in Edmonton and surrounding communities. ReStores are nonprofit home improvement stores that sell new and gently used furniture, appliances, building materials, and more. Proceeds from ReStores directly support Habitat’s charitable work, so every purchase and donation contributes to making homeownership more accessible in northern Alberta. For more information, visit hfh.org.
Honouring the National Day for Truth & Reconciliation
Today, Habitat for Humanity Edmonton teams from across Edmonton and the surrounding communities came together at our offices and ReStores, wearing orange to stand in solidarity on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This day invites us to pause and reflect. At Habitat, we believe in the power of a home — not only as a place of shelter, but as a foundation for stability, belonging, and community. For many Indigenous Peoples, however, the meaning of home is deeply connected to the legacy of residential schools. That history carries both loss and resilience, and it is one we must not overlook. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a time to listen, to remember, and to honour the stories of survivors and their families. It is about acknowledging the truths of the past so that we can commit to doing better now and in the future. When we speak about home, we hold that word with care — knowing it carries a deeper meaning for Indigenous Peoples whose experiences have shaped their understanding of home in ways that are often painful, but also filled with remarkable strength. As we wore orange today, we did so not as a single gesture, but as part of an ongoing journey of respect and solidarity. Reconciliation is not the work of one day; it is the work of every day.
Legacy Giving: How your story can build futures
August 20, 2025 Legacy giving is one of the most powerful ways to ensure that we continue building homes, communities, and hope for years to come. What is legacy giving? Legacy giving – a gift in your will – is a way to create lasting impact by including Habitat in your estate plans. It could be a specific dollar amount, a percentage of your estate, or even assets like investments, property or insurance. Whatever form it takes, a legacy gift ensures that families you may never meet will have the opportunity to build stability through affordable homeownership. Why it matters Legacy giving is about more than generosity — it’s about values. By making us part of your legacy, you’re carrying forward your belief that homeownership should be a right and not a privilege. A national study by Deloitte confirmed the ripple effects of affordable homeownership: individuals and families in Habitat homes report improved health, stronger finances, and brighter educational futures for their children. A legacy gift means more of those stories can continue, generation after generation. Accessible for everyone Contrary to common myths, legacy giving isn’t just for seniors or the wealthy. Anyone can make a difference, and every gift matters. It doesn’t take away from caring for your family first — it simply allows you to extend your impact beyond your lifetime. A gift that keeps building Legacy gifts provide us with the stability to plan ahead, invest in future builds, and serve more hardworking Albertans who need the opportunity to build their futures. They are a promise that together, we build homes, communities, and hope — today, tomorrow, and for years to come. Get started Planning today can change lives tomorrow. See how your legacy can make homes possible. We will guide you through the entire process.
New ways to volunteer with us!
At Habitat for Humanity Edmonton, volunteers fuel everything we do. 💙 That’s why we are proud to have Servus Credit Union as the sponsor of our volunteer program. Since 2023, Servus has shown its commitment to giving back — not just in words, but in action. Their support helps us create a welcoming, rewarding, and empowering experience for every volunteer who walks through our doors. And now, we’re excited to share that Habitat Edmonton has two new volunteer opportunities available. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to put your skills and energy to work, these roles could be the perfect fit. 1. Construction Assistants Are you an experienced carpenter or tradesperson looking to make a meaningful impact? Join Habitat Edmonton’s team of Construction Assistants. You’ll work alongside Habitat staff and fellow professionals to complete renovations for our BuyBack Program. Once renovated to modern standards, these homes are sold to new Habitat homeowners. What you’ll do: Why this role is a great fit: Qualifications: 👉 Apply Now 2. Volunteer Swampers & Warehouse Assistants If logistics is more your style, consider joining Habitat Edmonton as a Volunteer Swamper or Warehouse Assistant. This role supports our Distribution Center and all six ReStores. You’ll help load, unload, and organize donated items — both at our facilities and at donor residences. By making sure items are handled safely and respectfully, you’ll help ensure that more donations find a second life in our ReStores. What you’ll do: Why this role is a great fit: Requirements: 👉 Apply Now
Habitat for Humanity Edmonton hosts Home Celebration Ceremony for completed Sherwood Park build
August 20, 2025 SHERWOOD PARK, ALBERTA – Habitat for Humanity Edmonton held a Home Celebration Ceremony in Sherwood Park today to mark the completion of three new homes built in partnership with Pacesetter Homes and Qualico Communities. The newly finished homes, located at 1581, 1585, and 1589 Sandstone Blvd, are part of a triplex development made possible through the collective support of municipal, provincial, and federal partners. Strathcona County supported the purchase of the land, while the Government of Alberta and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) contributed funding for each unit. Together, these contributions made the project possible. These homes also form part of a broader investment by the federal government. Through the Affordable Housing Fund under the National Housing Strategy, the Government of Canada has committed $3 million towards Habitat Edmonton projects, including these homes. This funding includes a Black Families Funding investment of $1.5 million. Through the collaboration of Pacesetter Homes and Qualico Communities — two divisions of Qualico — the combined expertise of homebuilding and land development enabled the provision of a land-inclusive price for Habitat, supporting affordability. Additionally, Qualico provided a corporate donation in support of the construction project. “When a family opens the door to their Habitat home, they’re stepping into a future that’s finally within reach,” said Dr. Ann-Marie Reddy, President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity Edmonton. “These homes represent months of hard work, perseverance, and the power of partnership. We are incredibly grateful to our partners for making today possible.” “At Pacesetter Homes, we know a home is more than walls and a roof. It’s where families grow, dream, and build their futures. That’s why our partnership with Habitat for Humanity means so much to us,” said Dave Armstrong, Vice President for Pacesetter Homes Edmonton. “Together, we’re creating safe, high-quality homes that open the door for brighter tomorrows for families in our communities.” “Qualico has a long history of supporting Habitat for Humanity across Western Canada,” said Kraig Radtke, Vice President for Qualico Communities Edmonton. “This project shows how developers and builders can work together to create lasting change for families and Qualico Communities is proud to contribute to this legacy.” “Strathcona County is proud to support initiatives that strengthen our community,” said Mayor Rod Frank. “By investing in affordable homeownership, we’re helping families build equity, stability, and a brighter future while advancing our vision of becoming Canada’s most livable community.” “A neighbourhood is more than just houses; it’s the people, and their futures being built here,” said the Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, on behalf of the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada. “Our new Government is proud to have partnered with Habitat for Humanity to make this housing development happen. As of result of this collaborative effort, more families will now have a high-quality and affordable place to call home in Sherwood Park.” The Honourable Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services, added: “Safe, stable housing is the foundation of strong families and strong communities. By supporting Habitat for Humanity, we’re investing in both. The Sherwood Park build shows what can be achieved when we work together to help more Albertans put down roots and a roof over their heads.” “For me, home is my paradise — a place where we can finally breathe,” said Christel Meukick, who along with her husband and four children is moving into one of the new Habitat homes in Sherwood Park. “It means my children can grow up knowing that their parents worked hard for something lasting, and that we can finally put down roots in a community of our own.” These homes are part of Habitat Edmonton’s continued efforts to make homeownership affordable and accessible across northern Alberta. Each Habitat homeowner purchases their home through a unique mortgage model: no cash down payment is required, and mortgage payments are based on just 50% of the home’s appraised fair market value. – 30 – Media inquiries, please contact: Afarin MirzadehManager, Marketing & CommunicationsHabitat for Humanity Edmonton communications@hfh.org604-363-4077 About Habitat for Humanity Edmonton Habitat for Humanity Edmonton builds homes, communities, and hope through affordable homeownership. It is the only charity in the region that provides a path to homeownership for hard-working people who have been shut out of the market. Habitat Edmonton is not social housing and does not give away homes — it empowers Albertans to purchase and own their homes, creating stability and generational change. Habitat Edmonton also operates six ReStores in Edmonton and surrounding communities. ReStores are nonprofit home improvement stores that sell new and gently used furniture, appliances, building materials, and more. Proceeds from ReStores directly support Habitat’s charitable work, so every purchase and donation contributes to making homeownership more accessible in northern Alberta. For more information, visit hfh.org. About Qualico Communities Edmonton Qualico Communities Edmonton is the largest land developer in the capital region, with over 40 years of experience shaping vibrant neighborhoods across the Greater Edmonton Area. For more information about Qualico Communities Edmonton, please visit qualicocommunitiesedmonton.com About Pacesetter Homes Edmonton Pacesetter Homes Edmonton, part of the Qualico family, is one of the city’s largest and most recognized homebuilders, known for its award-winning quality and innovative designs. For more information about Pacesetter Homes Edmonton, please visit yourpacesetter.com.
Habitat for Humanity Edmonton opens sixth ReStore location with ribbon cutting in St. Albert
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 24, 2025 ST. ALBERT, ALBERTA – Habitat for Humanity Edmonton proudly celebrated the opening of its sixth ReStore location with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in St. Albert on Thursday, July 24. The private event brought together key government officials and community partners, including St. Albert Deputy Mayor Ken MacKay, several City Councillors, Michael Cooper, Member of Parliament for St. Albert—Sturgeon River, and Dale Monaghan, President and CEO of Goodwill Industries of Alberta. Habitat Edmonton’s President and CEO, Dr. Ann-Marie Reddy, officially welcomed attendees and thanked the community for its support. Located at 730 St. Albert Trail, this new ReStore is the first in the organization’s history to share a building with Goodwill, with both organizations operating independently within the same location. The partnership highlights a shared commitment to community impact. To welcome the public, Habitat Edmonton is also hosting a Grand Opening Celebration Sale on Saturday, July 26. All shoppers at the St. Albert ReStore that day will receive 20% off their purchase as a thank-you for celebrating with them and supporting affordable homeownership. “The opening of our St. Albert ReStore is an important step in advancing our work across northern Alberta,” said Dr. Ann-Marie Reddy, President & CEO of Habitat for Humanity Edmonton. “This location will help fund future builds, grow community involvement, and give people a simple, meaningful way to support affordable homeownership — whether by shopping, donating, or volunteering.” “Alberta’s government is proud to support Habitat for Humanity Edmonton as they help Alberta families get out of uncertainty and into safe, affordable homes,” said Honourable Jason Nixon, Alberta’s Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services. “Innovative, community-based solutions like this new ReStore in St. Albert deliver real results for Albertans and build stronger communities across the province.” “Collaborations with other non-profits have tremendous community impact, as we work together to offer a hand-up to those in need,” says Dale Monaghan, President and CEO of Goodwill Industries of Alberta. “Thanks to the generosity of the people of St. Albert, this valued partnership will strengthen our ability to deliver meaningful outcomes and opportunities while staying true to each of our missions.” “St. Albert City Council wants everyone in our community to have the opportunity to own their own home in St. Albert,” says Cathy Heron, Mayor of St. Albert. “The Habitat for Humanity ReStore will help achieve this outcome by providing residents with an affordable source of building supplies and materials.” All proceeds from Habitat ReStores support the full scope of Habitat Edmonton’s work — from building homes to delivering services that empower future homeowners. – 30 – About Habitat for Humanity Edmonton Habitat for Humanity Edmonton builds homes, communities, and hope through affordable homeownership. For more information about Habitat for Humanity Edmonton, please visit hfh.org. About Habitat ReStoreHabitat for Humanity ReStore is a non-profit retail and donation centre that sells new and gently used furniture, appliances, building materials, and more to the public at fair prices. Each location offers a unique shopping experience, with inventory changing daily thanks to generous donations from local residents and businesses. All proceeds from ReStore directly support Habitat for Humanity’s mission, helping more people gain access to safe, stable, and affordable homeownership. For more information about Habitat ReStore, please visit hfh.org/ReStore. Media inquiries, please contact: Afarin MirzadehManager, Marketing & CommunicationsHabitat for Humanity Edmonton amirzadeh@hfh.org604-363-4077
Most wanted: Donation items for ReStore
Our ReStores are currently in need of a wide range of items — and we’re calling on our community, businesses, and renovation enthusiasts to help us restock. Every donation keeps quality goods out of the landfill and supports our mission to make affordable homeownership possible for more families and individuals in Alberta. What We’re Looking For: We are especially in need of the following items: Free Pick-up Available Have something to give? We offer free donation pick-up from your home or business. Just visit our Donations Hub to schedule a time that works for you. Prefer to Drop Off Your Donation? You’re welcome to bring your items directly to any of our ReStore locations during donation hours: 🕒 Donation Hours:Monday to Saturday — 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM(Closed on Sundays and statutory holidays) Find your nearest ReStore at hfh.org/ReStore. Charitable Tax Receipts Many donations qualify for a charitable tax receipt. If you’d like one, be sure to let our donations coordinators know when dropping off or booking your donation.
