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This week marks the one year anniversary of Hurricane Sandy's landfall. Although the progress made in 365 days has been impressive, it's important to remember that relief efforts are far from over. Here's a look at how hard hit areas are doing nearly a year later and ways you can still help them recover.
The storm's impact left communities on the East Coast devastated in its wake, especially in New York and New Jersey. Since then, many generous people have lent a helping hand, including the "Jersey Shore" cast, celebrities who came together at a moments notice for the Hurricane Sandy Telethon, and awesome people like you who helped us Restore the Shore. But there is still so much that can and should be done.
+ Rebuild The Jersey Shore
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The photos of the Seaside Height's roller coaster mangled in the ocean became one of the most iconic images Hurricane Sandy. Just seven months later, most boardwalks and beaches were ready for summer (although sadly, Seaside Heights suffered damage again at the end of September due to an electrical fire). The community continues efforts to rebuild. As of last month, 26,000 residents in Ocean County were still displaced from their homes and removal of post-storm debris won't officially end until this week. You can show your love to the Jersey Shore by donating to the Sandy NJ Relief Fund or volunteer to help Jersey Cares with one of their on-going relief projects if you live locally.
Also, Architecture For Humanity, one of the major organizers of Sandy relief efforts, is continuing to collect funds and spearheading efforts to create a stronger boardwalk. They are always looking for volunteers in their NYC office, so if you're a young architect we recommend checking out this great opportunity!
+ Give Love To Breezy Point
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After the hurricane, Skillrex and Diplo pitched in to help rebuild the homes of first-responders in the Rockaways, an area that was destroyed by a massive fire. Ten months post-Sandy 60% of the community has returned, construction has begun on a half a dozen homes, and many other home owners filed paper work to rebuild. Support the community by purchasing a "Keep Calm and Rebuild Breezy" tee or make a donation at the Breezy Point Disaster Relief Fund.
+ Support The Entire Tri-State Area
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More towns and communities than we can fit in a blog post are still affected by Sandy. Since October 29th of last year, The Robin Hood Foundation has provided over $70 million dollars to organizations that are helping residents in the tri-state area rebuild and recover from Sandy. You can see the impact they've already made and help by donating to their Sandy relief fund.