(L to R) Red Cross Representatives Santana, Seretis-Allen, and Chester
*Photo by Mariyah Wojcik

By Mariyah Wojcik

SOUTH AMBOY- Red Cross representatives presented options for those who are still being affected by Superstorm Sandy to the city council at the business meeting on March 5.

Representatives Zachary Chester, John Santana, and Vicky Seretis-Allen, hurricane recovery specialists for the American Red Cross, highlighted key services for residents of South Amboy who are still experiencing the effects of Sandy.

“Citizens can call 211 with their Sandy-related problems and they will receive information about the resources that the state has available for them,” said Santana.

According to the Red Cross, the organization has spent or committed $280 million to Sandy relief efforts across the east coast. This money has gone towards food and emergency housing, individual casework, and relief items primarily.

The after-effects of Superstorm Sandy may not be as visible as when the disaster first occurred, but the community will continue to have resources, such as those for mental health and wellness, all three representatives assured.

If a resident wishes to receive assistance, or simply talk to someone about their relief options, they may do so by dialing 211 from any phone. There is an option on the welcome menu that deals with Sandy relief, and choosing this option will connect the person to a live operator.

The council also heard from Business Administrator Camille Tooker about a resolution that will allow some residents to make improvements to the exterior of their homes.

Resolution 58-2014 allows excess money from the Citizens Advisory Committee to be allocated to residents who meet certain criteria so that they may repair the sidewalk in front of their home or the exterior of the dwelling.

To be eligible for this program, residents can make up to $78,000 per year, which is a high income threshold, according to Tooker.

Applications will be dealt with on a first-come, first-serve basis. The applications will be numbered and funds will be allocated based upon the length of the sidewalk or amount of exterior repairs that will occur, based on an average cost for the repair work as determined by the council.

While Tooker explains that the program will be publicized through the city’s social media accounts, local newspapers, and the city website, councilwoman Suzette Dato had a more personal approach.

“We should have people knock on doors and explain to people how the program works,” said Dato. “This will get the word out better than some of the other methods.”

If approved, the program will begin in July, when the funding is available from the Citizens Advisory Committee.