A New Jersey contractor has given more than $52, 000 worth of HVAC equipment and installations to area military families in the past year.

The equipment is courtesy of A.J. Perri, an HVAC and plumbing contractor based in Tinton Falls, New Jersey.

“The team at A.J. Perri appreciates the service and sacrifices active and retired military men and women make,” said Jim Henkel, A.J. Perri’s general manager. “So we want to help them stay comfortable in their homes while affording them no expenses. It is a privilege to be able to serve those who have selflessly served our country.”

“We’re very grateful for A.J. Perri,” said Jamie Robertson, whose 16-year-old air-conditioning unit stopped working during hot June temperatures.

The Robertsons were one of four families who recently received free services from A.J. Perri.

Robertson’s wife, Brandi, said she is thankful for the contractor’s efforts.

“Civilians accepting us and supporting us in the community is hugely important,” she said. “That is how we can take care of our country with less stress in our home.”

“We see this as a different opportunity to give back, and we’re excited to help more families in need,” Henkel said. 

The Gaines family was also in need of a new HVAC system and water heating equipment. Their existing unit was original to their 20-year-old home. During the fall and winter months, they layered jackets and sweatpants while in their home.

A.J. workers traveled to the Gaines’ home in Bayville, New Jersey, and installed a new heating and cooling system, water heater, a Nest carbon monoxide and smoke detector and Nest thermostat, all free.

Charles Gaines and his wife Diana grilled lunch for the crew while they worked.