Captain America is repairing roofs in New Orleans

Extreme weather conditions are becoming a common occurrence and affecting people all throughout the country. Abnormal temperatures and more frequent natural disasters mean that communities with fewer resources, especially lower-income communities, are being heavily impacted by the physical, financial and emotional burden that accompanies natural disasters. Hurricanes, for example, can be particularly devastating, especially in areas that have to face them repeatedly.

The New Orleans region has experienced seven hurricanes in the last ten years. Many homes have been left vacant and others have blue tarps covering severely damaged roofs, which continue taking a beating, storm after storm. New Orleans’ 7^th ward particularly has struggled to recover, with an estimated 26% of homes left uninhabited since Hurricane Katrina and NOAA is predicting an active Atlantic hurricane season this year. With more storms potentially making landfall, it increases the chances of further devastation compounding an already difficult relief effort. With the level of home repairs needed, you may think that this task would be impossible for anyone but a superhero. Thankfully, Captain America, GAF and Rebuilding Together are on their way to help.

Anthony Mackie, the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s new Captain America, and GAF, the leading roofing and waterproofing manufacturer in North America, are teaming up with Rebuilding Together New Orleans, along with other nonprofits, to repair the roofs of neighbors who have been impacted by hurricanes. These projects are a part of the GAF commitment of repairing or replacing 500 roofs in the Gulf region, starting with 150 roofs in the 7^th ward. GAF will also be training community members in essential roofing skills through their GAF Roofing Academy and partnering with their network of roofing contractors to help in the effort.

“The impact of extreme weather goes well beyond initial property damage and is compounded over time, creating a burden that is almost impossible for families to overcome without help,” said William Stoudt, executive director, Rebuilding Together New Orleans. “This is why GAF’s commitment and support through Community Matters is so essential. There is a lot of work to be done to repair the homes in this community, but fixing the rest of the house doesn’t matter unless you protect the roof first.”

Mackie, who is originally from New Orleans, grew up working with his family’s roofing business. His platform as Captain America helps raise awareness of the level of critical support needed by hundreds of families in New Orleans and surrounding communities. With his support and the support of GAF, Rebuilding Together New Orleans will be able to help ensure that neighbors in the area will have a safe space and a roof over their head this hurricane season.