Por Jesse Sanchez.
A community’s response to disaster often reveals its heart. After Hurricane Helene devastated parts of the southern U.S., leaving countless residents in crisis, a roofing company out of Buffalo, New York, stepped up in an extraordinary way, organizing relief efforts to bring aid to the hardest-hit areas.
The initiative began with a simple social media post by Jonathan Harris, a contractor from Allegheny County. Moved by the images of destruction caused by the storm, Jonathon reached out to local businesses, fellow contractors and neighbors to collect essential supplies for those affected.
“These people are suffering and need the help,” said John Brancato from Brancato and Son’s Roofing and Siding in an interview with WIVBTV, expressing the sense of purpose shared by everyone involved. “Being able to get down there and help, having the ability to do that, feels absolutely wonderful.”
Within days, the grassroots effort transformed into a full-scale operation. Donations poured in from across the community. Grand Island residents filled trailer after trailer with water, canned goods, diapers, clothing and sleeping bags. By the fourth day, six pallets of water alone had been collected.
One of New York’s oldest family owned businesses, Mayor Bothers Cider Mill, also contributed, donating a 53-foot trailer loaded with supplies. Their involvement exemplified the collective spirit that characterized the relief campaign. A community member overseeing donations stated, “We’re so proud of everyone for helping out.”
This effort is the first time many of the contractors have participated in disaster relief, but the overwhelming response has inspired plans for continued support. One volunteer remarked, “Anything we ask for, it’s coming. It’s heartwarming to see our community, especially during some times when there’s a lot of challenges in the world and everyone coming together makes you feel great.”
The trucks, loaded with supplies, are now headed south to deliver much-needed relief to storm-stricken residents in North Carolina and Tennessee. This story of neighbors uniting to aid strangers serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and compassion within local communities.
While many roofing companies, like those in Buffalo, New York, are mobilizing to provide disaster relief, others are focusing their efforts on providing repairs for those requiring aid. Revelation Roofing, based in Colorado with locations in Granby and Steamboat Springs, has launched Project Roof Angel, a program dedicated to providing free roof repairs for deserving individuals and organizations in need.
Granby’s YMCA of the Rockies, Snow Mountain Ranch, became the first recipient of this program, chosen for its significant contributions to the community. Revelation Roofing repaired the roof of the ranch’s newly installed aerial challenge course, ensuring it remains a vibrant space for local activities. By helping nonprofits and impactful individuals, the company hopes to alleviate the burdens for those who tirelessly serve others.
Revelation Roofing is actively seeking nominations for future Roof Angel projects across Routt and Grand counties. Community members can apply or nominate others online. This initiative showcases the transformative power of businesses using their expertise to uplift communities and create lasting, positive change.
Image source: WIVBTV
Do you know of someone in the industry who is ‘doing good deeds’ in their community? Help us catch them at it. Send news and information to info@rooferscoffeeshop.com.
About Jesse
Jesse is a writer for The Coffee Shops. When he is not writing and learning about the roofing industry, he can be found powerlifting, playing saxophone or reading a good book.
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