As Palos Verdes Estates begins a demolition project to eliminate damaged Bluff Cove homes, Habitat for Humanity looks forward to reaping some benefits. This is a great example of how tragedy can be turned into something positive. Back in the 1980s, a major landslide destroyed many expensive homes in the area. Recently, an agreement was reached to demolish the effected houses and return the location back to its natural state.

Before the demolition project begins, almost all of the materials inside the damaged homes will be salvaged and donated to Habitat for Humanity. This means hundreds of cabinets, sinks, doors, light fixtures, and other supplies will be sold in various ReStore locations.

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles tries to educate and partner with families who need decent, sustainable, and affordable housing. Over the last three decades, this organization has built and renovated over 1,000 homes.

The entire demolition project has been in the works since 2012. At that time, the homes in Palo Verdes Estates were deemed to have signs of long-term damage. Last summer, the council concluded it would be smart to carefully tear down the homes. After a few weather-related delays, the entire deconstruction is set to begin in April.

What started as a hopeless situation has turned into something that will benefit the entire area. Besides preserving a large 5.5 acre property, many usable items are being repurposed for good as well. Over 70 percent of the debris will be recycled. Although this undertaking has been questioned, it is bringing the community together for a satisfying goal.