Super Storm Sandy ? HFI?s Ongoing Recovery Efforts

Hope Force International was among the very first disaster response organizations to engage in the relief and recovery efforts in Atlantic City following what is now known as Super Storm Sandy. For several months, Hope Force Reservists from across the country tirelessly worked to assist survivors who were overwhelmed by the task of flood remediation. In January 2013, a select team of staff and Reservists returned to Atlantic City in an effort to empower local leaders and residents as they struggled to mount an effective recovery effort, and established the Atlantic City Long Term Recovery Center.

The arduous task of rebuilding homes and inspiring hope continues?

It has now been eight months since Hope Force helped to open the Atlantic City Long Term Recovery Center.  The center serves as the central coordination for all the recovery efforts in Atlantic City. This daunting undertaking would not have been possible had it not been for Hope Force Reservists who selflessly served in difficult circumstances.

With the help of the Hope Force team, $1,445,000.00 in grants has been secured for the recovery group. Our goal from the outset has been to see the local community equipped to take on more and more of the management of the recovery effort. These funds have made possible the hiring of local staff to assume duties once carried out by Hope Force staff and Reservists.  The funds have also provided critically needed funding for unmet needs experienced by the survivors.

To date, 408 people have been served through case management, enabling many families to return to their homes.  Craig Snow, HFI Program Director, serves as the Operations Manager for the long-term recovery group. He projects that Hope Force will complete our involvement of providing overall leadership for the organization before the end of the year.  

Volunteer teams are still needed!

A constant challenge with the Atlantic City recovery efforts is a shortage of partner organizations and volunteer teams. We covet your prayers, and solicit your help in recruiting volunteers to help with home repairs. If you or a team from your group or church is interested in helping out, please contact: info@hopeforce.org.