Prop 5 makes it easier to build more affordable homes. Vote YES!

As we approach the upcoming election, we want to remind you of the power of your vote. Every vote counts, and your participation matters. We encourage you to make your voice heard and inspire those around you to do the same. Together, we can advocate for housing solutions that benefit all Californians.

There is one measure, in particular, on the ballot that will create lasting change - creating more affordable housing options that support first-time homebuyers currently priced out of owning in the neighborhoods where they live and work.

Prop 5 lowers the voter threshold, allowing local voters in the future to approve bonds for affordable housing and critical infrastructure with a 55% vote, removing a systemic barrier blocking our ability to create more housing. With Prop 5, communities will have more power to build new, affordable ownership housing, renovate existing housing, and provide the community infrastructure - like police and fire protection, streets, parks, and roads - to support it. Habitat Monterey Bay proudly supports Prop 5.

Catherine's First 100 Days

Catherine Stihler, our new CEO shares her thoughts on her first 100 days...

Our mission and vision touches one of the most challenging issues; the affordable housing crisis in Monterey and Santa Cruz counties. We don’t just talk about the challenge, we attempt to do something about it, building affordable homes, community and hope. One thing I have noticed in my first 100 days is that being part of Habitat for Humanity International gives us much kudos locally as a recognized international brand with a stellar reputation. The reactions from people when they hear about Habitat are warm, supportive, and engaging.

I've been busy, learning, taking it all in, and spending time connecting with staff, Board, and the community. We had a Board Retreat where the Board took a thoughtful look at what's next for Habitat as we deliver on the strategic vision they created. We also held a staff retreat where we analyzed our team strengths and considered how we are adapting to the many changes and challenges we face. I've been meeting with elected officials, community foundations, and local community leaders to share our work as well as learn how we fit into the greater landscape of the community.

One of the most exciting moments for these early days was going before Watsonville City Council and being there when they unanimously voted to approve our thirteen-home development on Airport Road. I stand ready to start building these homes and potentially 9 homes in the City of Marina this time next year.

I am grateful to all the volunteers and community support I have encountered in my first 100 days. I look forward to doing more to build affordable homes in service of families in Santa Cruz and Monterey counties.

Happy 100th Bday, Jimmy Carter

On Tuesday, October 1st, the most famous and beloved Habitat volunteer, President Jimmy Carter, turned 100. We are grateful for his years of public service and commitment to Habitat's work. To honor him, we were delighted to host birthday celebrations across our organization at our Habitat ReStores and at Rodeo Creek Court Housing Development.

"Like other Habitat volunteers, I have learned that our greatest blessings come when we are able to improve the lives of others, and this is especially true when those others are desperately poor or in need." - Pres. Carter.

Because of his hard work and commitment to our mission, people all over the world know about us, sign up to volunteer, donate, and support our ongoing work to transform lives.

Did you know that President Carter has been volunteering with Habitat since 1984?

• He first volunteered with Habitat in Americus, Georgia, in March of 1984.  
• In September of 1984 President and Mrs. Carter were joined by dozens of volunteers at the first Carter Work Project in NYC. 
• President and the late-Mrs. Carter worked alongside nearly 104,000 volunteers in 14 countries to build, renovate and repair 4,390 Habitat for Humanity homes. 

ReStore Leadership Change!

Welcome Gabby and thank you, Nick for your years of service

After eight years of dedicated service, Nick Kite, Director of ReStores for Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay, will be stepping down from his role. Nick has been instrumental in the growth and success of both the Santa Cruz County and Monterey County ReStores, which have become key contributors to Habitat’s mission of building homes, communities, and hope. 

Taking over the role of ReStore Director is Gabby Rubio, who has worked closely with Nick for the past eight years. Gabby has been an integral part of the ReStore team since the Seaside location’s inception and brings a wealth of experience, passion, and commitment to her new leadership position. Her deep understanding of ReStore operations and mission ensures a seamless transition and continued success. 

We are grateful for Nick’s years of leadership and look forward to seeing Gabby guide the ReStores into an exciting new chapter.

Volunteer Profile: Wendy



Wendy began volunteering at the Santa Cruz ReStore in 2012 after retiring from a career as a Communications Technician with AT&T. She was shopping at the time and pointed out a possible merchandising improvement to one of the store managers. He immediately said, "Thanks! You should volunteer here!" And so it began...

Wendy says her favorite thing about volunteering is the connection and interactions with the employees and the customers.

"You lose daily social interactions when you retire, it can be isolating, so that's why I started volunteering. It was fun, and then I learned more about Habitat and it is such a good thing to do. It's my second home now."

Wendy helps out in so many ways, working at least two days per week. Like all ReStore volunteers, she assists customers, helps with pricing, but she has also taken on the task of ordering paints and paint sundries - not the most fun task but highly needed. She stayed with us through the move from Swift Street in Santa Cruz to the new location in Watsonville. Her dedication is remarkable. She says, "I just love the people."

In her spare time, she travels, enjoys working in her yard, and plays softball. She has attended the Huntsman Senior World Championship for softball many years and brought back medals. This year, she played in four divisions and came home with two bronzes and a silver. She is pretty amazing! Thank you, Wendy, for all you do for Habitat!

ReStore Holiday Hours

The Watsonville and Seaside ReStore locations will both be closed for the holidays on the following dates:

Thanksgiving: Nov 28 and 29

Xmas and NY: December 22 through Jan 1st

We appreciate your business, please come find your ReStore treasures when we are open!

Regular Hours:

Mon - Fri 10am - 4pm

Home for the Holidays Online Auction

Coming soon!

Save the Dates

Dec 3 - 9, 2024

As always, there will be fantastic wines, dining options, vacation packages, theatre tickets, and more. Bid on something for yourself or a gift for a loved one this holiday season.

Your support helps us continue our mission to build homes, communities, and hope!

Legacy Society

We would like to take a moment to thank our Legacy Society donors. This type of support is critical in sustaining our work. The Legacy Society recognizes forward-thinking friends who make arrangements to benefit Habitat for Humanity beyond their lifetime. This can be through a trust, a family foundation, or other giving tool that allows people to support causes they care about after they are no longer with us. Please reach out if you would like more information on how to do this or would like to share your plans.