Rebuilding Together is the nation’s largest volunteer network that provides critical repairs and renovations to low-income homeowners. Rebuilding Together Essex County is part of this network and has provided services to Essex County low-income homeowners for over 13 years. Rebuilding Together believes that every person deserves to live in a safe and healthy home. The work is done mainly by volunteers and is free of charge to the homeowners.
After Hurricane Sandy, there are still people living in shelters, hotels and tents. These scenes of Hurricane Sandy victims on the news are heartbreaking to watch. Fortunately, there are organizations such as, Rebuilding Together Essex County where volunteers are working to help repair individuals’ damaged homes. Cynthia DeSouza, the Executive Director of Rebuilding Together Essex County, who has volunteered in this organization for seven years, works to help the victims of these disasters by getting grants, materials and qualified workers to help repair homes. “The most fulfilling part of my job is to help people stay in their homes,” DeSouza said. “We need contributions from corporations, foundations and individual donors to purchase materials and supplies.”
DeSouza remembers that previous projects included building a ramp for a veteran amputee, fixing damaged steps for seniors, repairing leaking roofs, replacing windows and electrical repairs. She always feels fulfilled knowing that Rebuilding Together Essex County is helping to provide sustainable homes and revitalizing neighborhoods.
“In these challenging economic times it is good to know that we are helping people to remain in a safe and healthy home environment,” she said. “National Rebuild Day, which is on the fourth Saturday of April, is a very important day. Last year we did repairs on 10 homes and a nonprofit center.”
For more information about Rebuilding Together Essex County, victims of Hurricane Sandy, those with damaged homes and individuals who wish to volunteer or make contributions, can call Cynthia DeSouza at the following number: 973-642-0100 or e-mail cynthia@rebuildingtogether-newark.org
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