Long Beach, NY - August 18, 2015 - Assemblyman Todd Kaminsky today joined Rebuilding Together Long Island (“RTLI”), a non-profit home repair organization, to assist in rebuilding a home in Long Beach that was devastated by superstorm Sandy and to announce the construction of an additional home.
RTLI has been assisting families with much-needed home repairs for over 20 years. In the wake of superstorm Sandy, many were left without the means to rebuild and RTLI has been an essential partner in helping families return to their homes. The organization not only provides funding for projects, but also supplies construction workers and licensed contractors, all at no cost to the homeowner. This is made possible through a generous grant from New York State Homes and Community Renewal’s Affordable Housing Corporation, which Assemblyman Kaminsky played a vital role in securing for RTLI.
“Spending time today with RTLI’s fabulous team and the Snow and Tangney families who are now able to get home as a result of RTLI’s hard work was extremely encouraging and heart-warming. This organization truly cares about helping families in need and is making a big difference in our community’s ongoing storm recovery efforts,” said Assemblyman Kaminsky.
“I am so pleased that Assemblyman Todd Kaminsky came to help us today,” said Barbara Nilsen, President of RTLI. “It was a wonderful way to show support for our cause. I truly appreciate the fact that so many people came out to make this a happy day.”
The first home that Assemblyman Kaminsky visited belongs to Karen Tangney, who was previously an operating nurse at the Long Beach Medical Center and who recently suffered a severe back injury that prevents her from working. Ms. Tangney said, “I am so grateful for Rebuilding Together Long Island – they are truly angels for coming here and this whole experience has been a miracle for me. It was also great that Assemblyman Kaminsky came down and actually worked on my home today. It was an honor to have him here.”
The second home belongs to James Snow, a U.S. Navy veteran, Boy Scout leader, local small business owner and single father of 4 young children. Mr. Snow’s home suffered severe damages from superstorm Sandy and between raising 4 kids and operating a full-time business, there was little time for focusing on much-needed home repairs. Assemblyman Kaminsky attended the RTLI’s ribbon cutting ceremony to kick off construction. “I am overwhelmed with gratitude,” said Mr. Snow. “This is all totally unexpected and so appreciated. I have had the pleasure of meeting Assemblyman Kaminsky at many events in the community and I am so thankful that the Assemblyman came down to show support and unification for Long Beach.”
RTLI is still accepting applications for home repair projects for families who are low-to-moderate income with limited assets and resources.
