Industry News

PHCC members volunteer to repair hurricane-damaged houses

Several PHCC members, including a family of five, volunteered July 23-29 to rehabilitate hurricane-damaged homes for low-income Gulf Coast homeowners. The program was part of Rebuilding Together’s Rebuild 1000 campaign to restore 1,000 affected homes in the hurricane region.

PHCC representatives renovated the plumbing systems in three homes in New Orleans. The volunteers updated baths and kitchens and replaced water heaters, waste and vent systems and major portions of water lines.

Cordia Plumbing Inc., Richmond Heights, Mo., had five family members participate: parents Bonnie and Stephen, and their children Joseph, Shelly and Beth. Bonnie Cordia said that plumbers Stephen and Joseph roughed in bathrooms, with “plumber’s helper” assistance from Bonnie, Shelly and Beth.

“I think the most rewarding part of the experience was just to know that you are helping somebody. The people in that area are pretty desperate,” Bonnie said. “Plus, it was nice to do this as a family. We all know each other and how each other works.”

PHCC vice president Jim Finley, C.N. Finley Inc., New Orleans, La., was the PHCC coordinator of the project, doing advance and on-site work. Other PHCC companies donating their time to the project were: Bienvenu Brothers Enterprises, Metairie, La.; Citizens Mechanical Services, Indianapolis, Ind.; Cordia Plumbing, Richmond Heights, Mo.; Hennessey Plumbing Services, Milford, Conn.; and Northwestern Plumbing Co., Los Angeles, Calif.