Back in October 2007, the Seattle Seahawks, News Talk 710 KIRO and Rebuilding Together, a non-profit organization in New Orleans, set a goal to help one family move back into their home in New Orleans. Aniece Gibbs, 88, lost her home of 50 years in Hurricane Katrina.
Through the generosity of Seahawks fans and the listeners of News Talk 710 KIRO over $85,000 was raised to rebuild Ms. Gibbs home, furnish it with appliances, and provide much needed funding for other rebuilding projects in New Orleans.
Jonathan Skvarka, Information and Research Officer for Rebuilding Together New Orleans provides a first hand journal account as Ms. Gibbs house is fully restored to conditions pre-Hurricane Katrina.
1/22/08
The last few weeks have been cold and rainy, but progress still pressed on at Ms. Gibbs' home thanks to dedicated volunteers and carpenters. Two weeks ago, volunteers from New York removed the old siding and cleaned the wood of nails for re-use all while the rain drenched them most of the day. In addition, carpenters continued to install new windows and exterior doors while repairs were started on the siding. At the end of the week, the air conditioning was also roughed in.
Last week, the rain slowed down work for a day or two. The rest of the work days were productive with 9034 Fig Street passing plumbing inspection and the application for electrical inspection was sent in. Volunteers started insulating and hauled piles of debris away from the house. The process of installing windows and doors rolled on as well for the diligent carpenters.
This week has brought a sunny Monday and the next few days look bright for Ms. Gibbs as well. Similar to last week, volunteers will finish installing insulation and radiant barrier while the carpenters finish their work on the windows and doors. After those tasks are completed, the carpenters will begin work on the new front porch and the soffit. The contract will be awarded to hang drywall, paint, and lay floors with work commencing on each. Due to Seattle's continued support, 9034 Fig is well on its way to becoming a home again.
