Associated Builders and Contractors East Coast Florida Chapter (ABC) has partnered with United Way of the Florida Keys to help those still impacted by the effects of Hurricane Irma.
ABC Cares, the chapter’s charitable foundation, is offering direct financial assistance to residents of the Florida Keys who also work in the construction industry, regardless of ABC membership status.
“The media covers the storm a few days after it passes, but the people who live in the keys are still suffering the effects of Hurricane Irma months later,” said Kate Bauer-Jones, United Way Florida Keys Chapter President. “The United Way is happy to partner with ABC Cares to help those who are trying to rebuild their homes and their lives.
Post-Irma partnership efforts will help aid a small licenses HVAC business run by Jennifer Cappadona of Islamorada. Cappadona took out a loan to pay her employees during the storm and aftermath of having no business for several weeks. ABC Cares and United Way have agreed to pay $1,000 towards her liability insurance payment to free up other funds and allow her to continue to pay her employees.
Additionally, ABC Cares and United Way have agreed to pay two months of rent for Angel Garcia, a licensed Contractor for Rutherford Construction in the Lower Keys. This financial assistance will allow Garcia a place to live in the aftermath of the hurricane while his company gets back up to speed.
Since 2010, the foundation has donated more than $60,000 to construction professionals and their families in times of need. Since then, the goal has been to provide financial assistance and support, often before disability or insurance payouts are available. Previous initiatives have included grants and scholarships, events to benefit local charities, partnerships with the American Red Cross and providing funding for medical expenses and unexpected costs due to the loss of a loved one.
“It’s the least we can do,” said Nick Krarup, who serves on the board of directors for ABC. “Our neighbors suffered substantial damage to their homes and businesses. If we can help them recover in any way, we are going to.”
“Seeing the mass devastation caused by Irma is heartbreaking,” said President and CEO Peter Dyga. “But watching everyone come together for such a great cause makes me proud to work alongside the Trustees and benefactors of the ABC Cares Foundation.”
