On December 11, 2023 tragedy struck the community at 1915 Billingsley Terrace, near West Burnside Avenue in New York City. A building collapse occurred around 3:30 p.m., displacing 136 individuals from 37 families residing in 49 units. This unforeseen disaster has left these families without homes, belongings, and a sense of security. In the aftermath of a devastating building collapse, communities face the dual challenge of physical reconstruction and addressing the immediate needs of displaced tenants. The "Rebuilding Lives" campaign is a grassroots, boots-on-the-ground initiative aimed at providing comprehensive support to those affected by building collapses. This writeup outlines the key components of the campaign and its strategies for effective tenant displacement assistance.
Allocation of Funds:
- Emergency Shelter and Accommodation (30%):
- Provide temporary housing solutions for displaced families.
- Cover hotel expenses, short-term rentals, or collaborate with local shelters.
A. (Average cost of hotel room within a 5-mile radius for 1 day = $150.00 x 49 displaced homes)
- Basic Needs and Essentials (20%):
- Distribute emergency supplies such as food, water, clothing, and personal hygiene items.
- (Up to $500.00 per household for food)
- (Up to $125.00 per person food clothing/hygiene)
- Facilitate the provision of essential household items for those transitioning to new accommodations.
- (Up to $500.00 per household)
- Distribute emergency supplies such as food, water, clothing, and personal hygiene items.
- Medical Assistance (15%):
- Arrange for medical check-ups, urgent care, and mental health support for affected individuals.
- (A Department of Human Services Consultant will be available to assist the affected)
- Cover medical expenses, prescriptions, and counseling services.
- (A Medicaid/Medicare Consultant will be available to assist the affected)
- Arrange for medical check-ups, urgent care, and mental health support for affected individuals.
- Legal Support (10%):
- Engage legal professionals to assist tenants with navigating insurance claims and potential legal issues.
A. (Cause We Care will partner with local legal aid to assist in minor legal issues.)
- Provide guidance on tenant rights, leases, and any legal proceedings related to the incident.
- (Cause We Care will provide HUD counseling and a tenant rights advocate to assist in legal assistance.)
- Educational Support (10%):
- Establish a fund for educational assistance, especially for displaced students.
- Cover school supplies, uniforms, and any educational expenses incurred due to the displacement.
- Community Resources and Workshops (10%):
- Organize community-building activities, workshops, and support groups to foster a sense of belonging.
- Provide informational sessions on disaster preparedness, tenant rights, and mental health.
- Infrastructure and Housing Reconstruction (5%):
- Contribute to the rebuilding efforts or collaborate with other organizations involved in reconstruction projects.
- Support initiatives that aim to improve the safety and resilience of housing in the community.
Monitoring and Reporting:
- Regular Updates:
- Provide transparent and regular updates to donors, stakeholders, and the community on how the funds are being utilized.
- Financial Accountability:
- Implement financial controls to ensure that funds are spent in accordance with the outlined allocation and goals.
Auditing:
- Consider engaging an external auditor to conduct periodic audits, ensuring accountability and compliance with financial regulations.
Collaboration and Partnerships:
- Coordinate with Local Agencies:
- Collaborate with local government agencies, NGOs, and community organizations to leverage existing resources and avoid duplication of efforts.
- Partnerships with Businesses:
- Seek partnerships with local businesses and corporations to secure in-kind donations or additional financial support for the initiative.
- Engage the Community:
- Encourage community involvement and feedback through town hall meetings, surveys, and open forums.