Habitat for Humanity warehouse in Iowa City ‘total loss’ after tornado

IOWA CITY — Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity’s warehouse in southeast Iowa City is a “total loss” after last week’s tornado outbreak in Eastern Iowa.

The 5,760-square-foot warehouse was the organization’s main storage space for everything necessary to build and repair homes, including construction tools, safety equipment, new appliances, vehicles and trailers, the group said in a news release Tuesday.

Habitat for Humanity’s warehouse, built in 2016 at 4764 420th St. SE, also was used for volunteer space and workshops in addition to storing materials and other needed items. The nonprofit works to provide affordable housing in Johnson, Cedar, Iowa and Washington counties.

The organization is seeking community support and funds to help rebuild the warehouse.

“Our organization has determined that our clients, staff and the majority of our most dedicated supporters stayed safe and have been unaffected by last week’s storms, and for that we are grateful,” Executive Director Scott Hawes said. “This loss, however, is still devastating.”

Construction Manager Christy Shipley added how the warehouse was “my dream project for more than a decade.”

It hasn’t been confirmed yet, but Hawes said it is likely a tornado hit the warehouse and the group’s neighboring HabLab classroom during the March 31 storms.

Friday’s tornado outbreak left behind widespread damage in Eastern Iowa. The National Weather Service’s Quad Cities bureau confirmed 16 tornadoes as of Monday afternoon. It’s expected the final tornado number will be in the 20s.

At least 11 injuries were reported, with no known fatalities.

The neighboring HabLab facility still is standing but “sustained significant damage” and will need “several critical repairs,” the release said. This building includes a classroom, kitchenette, bathroom, staff office and additional storage.

Despite the damage, Habitat for Humanity is committed to responding to emergency requests for home repairs, major appliance replacements and other home repairs as residents recover from the severe weather.

A fundraising campaign has been created online at bit.ly/habitatwarehouse to collect donations from the community to cover the rebuilding cost. Funds will be used for debris removal, cleanup, insurance deductibles and replacement of supplies and equipment.

Donations will allow the organization to immediately replace tools, equipment and supplies used to continue building. As of Tuesday afternoon, more than $2,000 has been raised.

“I’ve asked for a lot of help from our volunteers and supporters in my 17 years with Habitat, but we need you now more than ever,” Shipley said. “Please consider whatever you can do to lend a hand and help us rebuild this essential space.”

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