Several PHCC members, including a family of five, volunteered July 23-29 to rebuild Gulf Coast homes damaged by recent hurricanes.

The program was part of Rebuilding Together’s Rebuild 1000 campaign, which aims to restore 1,000 homes for low-income families affected in the hurricane region.

Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors National Association representatives renovated the plumbing of three homes in New Orleans. The volunteers updated baths and kitchens and replaced water heaters, sewer and vent systems and major portions of water lines.

Cordia Plumbing Inc. in Richmond Heights, Mo., had five family members participate: parents Bonnie and Stephen, and their children Joseph, Shelly and Beth. Bonnie Cordia said that plumbers Stephen and Joseph roughed-in bathrooms, with “plumber’s helper” assistance from Bonnie, Shelly and Beth.

“I think the most rewarding part of the experience was just to know that you are helping somebody. The people in that area are pretty desperate,” said Bonnie Cordia. “Plus, it was nice to do this as a family. We all know each other and how each other works.”

PHCC Vice President Jim Finley of Finley Inc. in New Orleans was the PHCC contractor on the project, doing advance and on-site work. Other PHCC companies donating their time to the project were: Bienvenu Brothers Enterprises of Metaire, La.; Citizens Mechanical Services in Indianapolis; Hennessey Plumbing Services in Milford, Conn.; and Northwestern Plumbing Co. in Los Angeles.