Help Rebuild Sandy-damaged Communities

Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity is hoping you'll pedal for a good cause. The organization is holding its 6th Annual "Bike To Build" event this month to highlight the recovery process nearly two years after Super storm Sandy and to raise awareness about  the plight of the working poor and issues surrounding the lack of affording housing. 

Suzan Fichtner, Executive Director, said the event will take place on Sunday, September 14 at 9 a.m. from Beachwood Bicycles on Route 166. Riders of all skill levels will have three scenic routes to chose from along the beautiful Toms River and Barnegat Bay through Beachwood, Pine Beach, Ocean Gate, Bayville and other areas impacted by the storm. The routes are ten miles, 23 miles and 32 miles.

"Since Superstorm Sandy we have actually been rebuilding 42 homes," Fichtner said. "We have been very successful in these 22 months post-Sandy in bringing many families back home to their homes."

Fichtner noted the event also hopes to draw attention to the lack of affordable housing. "The need to keep people in descent housing is one of our biggest challenges," she said.

Participants can get involved several ways. Riders can register online at www.raceforum.com/Bike2Build, or fill out a registration form at http://nohfh.com/about-us/events/bike-to-build/. Sponsorship forms also are available on the website.

All proceeds from the event will help fund construction and rehabilitation of Habitat houses within the community, including those devastated by Sandy.