Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties was the recipient of numerous recovered stolen appliances from the Lee County Sheriff’s department. Ron Ralls, unit manager of the Lee County Evidence Department said about a year and half ago a lengthy investigation culminated in an arrest and conviction of a criminal that was stealing refrigerators, stoves, dishwashers, microwaves and even bathtubs from unoccupied homes.

“We closed the investigation with the retrieval of approximately 180 appliances,” Ralls said. The Sheriff’s department decided to share the recovered items with the Sheriff’s Youth Ranch and Habitat for Humanity.

“This was the first time that we seized stolen property of this magnitude. Sometimes we retrieve an item here and there, but never this much at one time. We decided to give back to the community by sharing with a non-profit organization that would benefit homeowners,” Ralls said.

Habitat’s ReStore Manager David Rivera said, “Habitat for Humanity is extremely grateful for the donations. Donations are sold in the Habita ReStore which is a donation and resale center. Proceeds from the sale of these items help to further the mission of Habitat for Humanity.

Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry counties’ mission is to provide affordable housing solutions to low-income individuals with zero interest mortgages.

Partnering families must commit to 250 sweat equity hours, pay $1,200 toward closing cost and qualify for a mortgage. Habitat provides a hand up, not a hand out with the ultimate goal of eliminating substandard housing in our communities.