By Nicole M. Wells, Special Writer
NEW BRUNSWICK — The Metuchen Diocese Catholic Charities’ Hurricane Sandy relief efforts have resulted in more than $147,855 in direct aid to victims in the central New Jersey area, according to Executive Director Marianne Majewski.
”In less than two months, we have been able to assemble a team of experienced disaster specialists, gather resources, identify needs and provide direct aid,” Ms. Majewski said. “The challenges have been daunting but we are committed to meeting the needs.”
The team’s efforts have impacted nearly 2,000 people in need in the region in the past eight weeks, Ms. Majewski said.
The team updated Ms. Majewski on Dec. 31 in New Brunswick about the group’s efforts through the holidays, according to the press release. Members include volunteers, paid staff, employees, church leaders and civic-minded college graduates.
”Originally many aid agencies came to help with cleanup, but there are long term problems that need to be met, from housing to financial concerns,” team member Monsignor Joseph Kerrigan said. “Our goal is to provide for their immediate needs and continue to assist with case managers, social workers and support staff.”
According to the press release, the team sent representatives to each community to work with elected leaders and faith groups to identify the problems. In some areas, team members went door to door to better understand the needs.
”Even though each of these communities was impacted by the same storm, their needs are different,” Monsignor Kerrigan said. “The issues are different depending if you are in Sayreville, South River, Laurence Harbor, South Amboy or one of the other communities.”
The team met with dozens of representatives to identify how to best provide assistance in the different communities, according to the press release. One issue that routinely came up was the frustration of waiting. The team streamlined the aid process by setting up direct aid days where residents received immediate answers.
The team’s assessment forecasts an increase in needs and advocacy for those impacted by the storm. To date, there have been a variety of needs, including replacing hot water heaters and providing rental vouchers, food and financial assistance, according to the press release.
According to the team’s assessment, people will need help rebuilding their homes and communities. In 2013, the financial pressures are going to continue to grow on the most vulnerable people impacted by the storm. Many of those impacted will need assistance with the insurance process and finding permanent housing. The Catholic Charities Hurricane Sandy team will be continuing its relief efforts in the New Year.
The majority of the recovery effort’s funding to date came from collections at local churches, including St. Augustine’s of Kendall Park and St. Cecilia’s of Monmouth Junction, according to the press release.
