IHS Development is a finalist in the Family Handyman Rescue Remodel contest

Cynthia DeSouza, who is the Executive Director and founder of IHS Development, is really excited that her organization may have their kitchen remodeled if they win the contest, “Family Handyman Rescue Remodel.” The winner will get their kitchen remodeled at a value of $25,000; Ikea will do the kitchen makeover. She is currently unable to use the kitchen to serve the community due to the damage caused by Hurricane Irene and Hurricane Sandy.

“Since the kitchen is damaged, volunteers cannot cook or prepare the food,” DeSouza said. “The ceiling was damaged and there are several leaks.”

If the kitchen is not fixed, then DeSouza will not be able to provide the community with nutrition programs, a food pantry, a soup kitchen and etiquette classes.

“I will not be able to give individuals nutrition classes if my kitchen is not repaired,” she said. “I plan to become more involved with MyPlate, which is a nutrition program sponsored by the government.”

According to DeSouza, IHS Development also helps the needy people of Essex County. She plans to have a soup kitchen to feed the hungry, homeless and working people who are struggling. She hopes to provide comfort to the poor.

Beyond The Eyes is a multicultural organization that enables blind and visually impaired individuals to lead productive and independent lives. DeSouza has been helping the members of Beyond The Eyes for several years. Each time they have a meeting she prepares and cooks the food for them. She looks forward to giving the associates of Beyond The Eyes etiquette classes.

“Since my kitchen is damaged, I had to cancel some of the etiquette classes for Beyond The Eyes,” she said. “These classes are so important, for they teach the blind and visually impaired to dine at a restaurant just like everyone else.”

If you want to vote for Cynthia DeSouza, so her organization IHS Development, will have the chance to win a $25,000 kitchen makeover and continue to provide quality programs to help the community, log on to www.rescueremodel.com. Then remember to vote for IHS Development.