Rebuilding of Eastwick homes from Storm Isaias continues
The rebuilding and renovation continue on homes in the Eastwick neighborhood of Southwest. Volunteers (and Contractors) are still needed since Tropical Storm Isaias brought devastating flooding to Eastwick in August 2020.
The Eastwick Unmet Needs Roundtable have identified 50 families who still needed help with rebuilding of homes. Contractors are required for replacement of heating and cooling systems.
The Roundtable is a partnership of community organizations like Eastwick United CDC and Eastwick Friends and Neighbors Coalition. Other members include disaster recovery non-profits like The Salvation Army, UCC Disaster Ministries, Lutheran Disaster Response, The Elevated Studio, The Eastern PA Conference of the United Methodist Church. Government partners include Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management, Philadelphia Office of Sustainability, Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation, and Pennsylvania Emergency Management.
Volunteers have contributed 4,000 hours to date. Contractors have installed 26 air handlers and 6 hot water heaters as well as repaired electric and plumbing in several homes. Help is still needed to complete the remaining cases by the end of the calendar year.
Volunteers, skilled in general construction and carpentry, as well as those willing to learn, are needed.
The Roundtable is also looking for licensed and insured contractors. Full funding is available for all materials and contractor labor.
Volunteer on Saturday November 12, 2022, by contacting Volunteer Coordinator, Sharon Sgriccia at isaiasrecoveryvolunteers@gmail.com
“Long term recovery from disasters takes many years and is a very slow and difficult process for survivors,” advised Julia Menzo, Director of Community Outreach, Liberty Lutheran/Lutheran Congregational Services. “We also hold in our hearts those just beginning to recover from Hurricanes Fiona and Ian. Please consider these volunteer opportunities as a way of standing in solidarity with all disaster survivors in all places.”
“We know that help for Eastwick flooding is coming, but for now deserving residents need our help,” stressed Menzo.
(This article was drawn from a Roundtable email October 28 to the Globe Times)
