Putnam Businesses Honored as Superstorm Sandy Heroes
United Way of Westchester and Putnam and the Putnam Chambers of Commerce are honoring six Putnam County businesses and a Mahopac synagogue for helping residents during Superstorm Sandy.
The heroes are: A-Class Builders of Carmel, a home remodeling firm; Advanced Chiropractic Wellness Care of Brewster; The Freight House Cafe of Mahopac; Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union, which has offices in Putnam; Kidz Country Learning Day Care Center of Mahopac, a daycare center; and Temple Beth Shalom of Mahopac.
“We are so happy to be honoring these wonderful businesses,” said Naomi Adler, president and CEO, United Way of Westchester and Putnam. “The strength of our communities depends on the generosity and caring of all its residents, especially local businesses and houses of worship. Their good work during last year’s devastating storm is an example of the best Putnam County has to offer.”
Residents as well as local business leaders affiliated with the Putnam, Greater-Mahopac and Brewster chambers of commerce nominated the various organizations in December to recognize local companies that help their communities, said Jennifer Maher, chair, Putnam Chambers of Commerce.
“The many businesses and houses of worship that call Putnam home care deeply about our county,” said Maher. “Many small-business owners also live here. They feel a connection to their neighbors and understand their needs during difficult times. We salute their kindness.”
- Owner Brian Finney of A-Class Builders performed “countless” emergency home repair calls during the height of the storm and after. He also collected and distributed donations and supplies to people hardest hit.
- Dr. Rennie Statler of Advanced Chiropractic Wellness Care personally helped people in need as far away as Staten Island.
- The Freight House Cafe, owned by Donna Massaro, opened its doors to customers without power, providing free coffee, a warm atmosphere and a chance to recharge cell phones.
- Employees of Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union were recognized for helping Matthew Paterson Elementary School in Patterson collect and distribute batteries, blankets, gloves, hygiene supplies, storage bins and many other needed supplies.
- Kidz Country Learning Day Care Center extended its hours to provide a safe, nurturing environment for children while their parents returned to work or cleaned up the damage to their homes.
- Temple Beth Shalom opened its doors to Mahopac families who lost power during the storm. Just as important, the congregation provided fun activities for the children to keep them occupied and happy during this stressful time.
Adam has worked in the local news industry for the past two decades in Westchester County and the broader Hudson Valley. Read more from Adam’s author bio here.
