The Coastal Bend Disaster Recovery Group (CBDRG), in coordination with Rebuild Texas, Catholic Charities, Christian Public Service, Coastal Bend Food Bank, and Samaritan’s Purse, delivered two more homes to Rockport and Aransas Pass Hurricane Harvey survivors. Both families celebrated with home dedication ceremonies with a presentation of keys to the new owners.
After Hurricane Harvey destroyed Wendy and Abraham Cocke’s first manufactured home, they lived in a tent for three weeks until they received another RV for temporary housing. The Cocke’s remained in that RV until volunteers broke ground to replace their old home with a brand-new manufactured home funded by Rebuild Texas in July. “It was a surprise; we were shocked. We didn’t expect it,” expressed Wendy. “That was the best part. We’re very grateful, and we can live normal again.”
“It’s a great day to see another home replaced, and another family move back to Aransas County,” said Judge Burt Mills.
Mary Munoz and Richard Munas lived in a manufactured home that needed small repairs. They were in the process of repairs when Hurricane Harvey hit and destroyed their home. They stayed with their daughter in Corpus Christi for the time being. In September, Mary found out she had terminal cancer. The family has been through a lot, but Mary expressed how much they have to be thankful for. “We thought, can you believe that there are people out there that will help us? Do you think it’s true? Pinch me, so I know it’s real!” she shared excitedly. “We are very appreciative, thankful, and very blessed.”
Commissioner Jack Cheney shared emotional words, “Our area was hit very hard. If it weren’t for groups like CBDRG, we wouldn’t be where we are on this road to recovery.”
With the completion of these two homes, CBDRG and its partners have replaced 43 manufactured homes, with 14 left to install. These two homes mark the first and second homes completed of the second phase made possible by the Rebuild Texas grant. Rebuild Texas has funded the replacement CBDRG, in partnership with several other non-profits, have completed 190 major home reconstruction projects thus far and is continuing to work on another 43 on-going projects. All of this is possible thanks to the generous donors and hardworking volunteers. CBDRG continues to seek volunteers who range from skilled-laborers to general help.