MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Rebuilding Together Greater Florida is helping Bay area residents make their homes more secure for storm season. The nonprofit is partnering with local roofing companies to install roofs that are specifically designed to withstand the force of a storm.
What You Need To Know
- The nonprofit says it has completed work on dozens of homes in Manatee County
- The work throughout the Bay area is ongoing
One Sarasota couple discussed the impact of getting a new roof.
“I love it, I love it,” said Johnnie Cantrell.
The smile on Cantrell’s face said more than words can describe.
“They’re doing a good job — I love it,” he said. He’s talking about the crews working on their new roof — something the couple, who has owned their home for 25 years, didn’t think was going to happen.
“It’s just a wonderful thing. And I just thank them, and I thank God for all the blessings and stuff, because not everybody can afford it, you know,” said his wife, Sheila Cantrell.
Rebuilding Together Greater Florida partnered with Red Ladder Roofing Company to install fortified roofs for residents — including the elderly, disabled and low-income households.
Rebuilding Together Greater Florida Interim Board President Anthony Baldo explained, “They are proven to reduce storm damage and help families shelter in place.”
The organization says it has completed work on dozens of homes in Manatee County, and its work throughout the Bay area is ongoing.
“Our community is vulnerable, right? Like, we have a lot of homes that need help. And these types of projects are ones where we can be proactive,” Baldo said.
The Cantrells said they had needed their roof repaired for years — but became desperate after Hurricane Milton damaged it.
“That we’re going to be safer and that we won’t have any major damage to our ceilings and the roof and everything — now that it’s coming together,” Sheila Cantrell said.
The cost to repair their roof was more than $16,000 — a hefty price the family couldn’t afford, but one that was completely covered by Rebuilding Together Greater Florida.
“I’m on disability. In my check, I can barely afford a Coke,” Johnnie Cantrell said.
With a new roof strengthening the Cantrells’ home and helping them feel more secure, they’re hopeful the charity’s work will continue — giving others the chance to be better prepared for storm season, too.
Julia Hazel
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