Law Enforcement Volunteers Continue Hurricane Sandy Relief Efforts

For the second time since Hurricane Sandy struck our area, a tractor-trailer loaded with supplies arrived in Howell to help people still recovering from the storm's devastation.

The first time the truck was filled with food from Michigan in the immediate aftermath of the storm. On week an equally large truck arrived filled with appliances for people working their way back into their homes. 

Sgt. Joseph Markulic of the Howell Police Department and President of the Monmouth County Traffic Officers Association said the truck came courtesy of Toll Brothers in Virginia. "Whoever wants it, get in touch with us and come and get it," Markulic said of the refrigerators, microwaves and other items that came off the truck. 

Even weeks after the storm Markulic said the need for items like the ones that were delivered still have a need. "So many people are in need," he said. "If we can keep getting stuff to them, helping them out and save a little money we're happy to."

Jenny Tennies, an administrative assistant for the home builder said the appliances came from models they were building down in Virginia before she convinced her bosses to send them to New Jersey. "We are absolutely happy to help," she said. "I think big and I do big and I'm a person that's a result kind of person," she added about the size of the delivery that was made.

Tennies said Buster Campbell, a local business owner in Virginia who has family that was affected by Sandy, donated the truck. "I came here to help him volunteer in November and I wanted this to happen really bad," she said.

Michael Marks, of the Keansburg Fire Department was collecting items for the first responders in the town who had their buildings heavily damaged in the storm as well. "We're very grateful," he said. "Our members are already totally exhausted so any little bit at all that can help is greatly appreciated and this is help."

Marks said in his town and neighboring towns residents are still dealing with heavily damaged homes that are now being affected by mold and the flooding the storm caused. He said close to three thousand of the 10 thousand people in Keansburg alone were relocated following the storm so an opportunity to get free appliances was very much appreciated. 

Having served the town for 17 years Marks said going on calls can become routine but Hurricane Sandy changed that for him and his fellow members. "There's more sympathy," he said. "You don't take things for granted anymore."

The traffic officers association held a benefit concert to help other first responders in need and Markulic said the Heroes Helping Heroes Concert has raised close to $45 thousand through ticket sales, raffles and auctions. "It was 100 percent better than I thought it would be," he said. "Six O'Clock came, the band came on and the place was packed."

Markulic said he expects more efforts to continue as the need for help from the devastating storm continues to be felt. 

To learn more about Heroes Helping Heroes check out this Facebook page.