Maria Alcala Mobilizes Her Community to Replace Roof on Alexandria House

By Cass Jacoby, RCS Reporter.  

The roofing industry’s dedication to community and protecting others shines through with the expedient work on the Alexandira House. 

The Alexandria House provides transitional housing for women and children, offering a safe and supportive environment for families as they become more economically stable and find permanent housing. The Alexandria House is crucial in addressing the homelessness crisis, finding permanent homes for their residents and providing ongoing support to help them thrive and remain in their own homes. 

On the heels of the pandemic and sheltering in place, an electrical fire broke out and destroyed the interior and roof of the main house on the property. Luckily, all of the residents and staff safely evacuated the building and relocated to a nearby hotel. However, the destruction left these families displaced and most of the damage was not covered by insurance. The cost of the repairs totaled a staggering $94,450. Repairing the roof alone would amount to $70,450.  

The SoCal Council of National Women in Roofing (NWiR), as a dedicated supporter of the Alexandria House, couldn’t let a fire or COVID-19 affect their support of the shelter. Alexandria House director, Michele Richards, contacted Maria Alcala, NWiR SoCal Chair, to see if they could help, and Maria immediately mobilized her local NWiR Council, suppliers and her SRS Distribution company to replace the roof. 

Maria also launched a pilot SRS Latino Forum fundraiser and secured matching funds from SRS Raise the Roof Foundation.  

With work being done diligently, the roof was finished in April and the mothers and children served by Alexandria House are safe again. The new roof serves as a symbol of new life for these women and is a shining example that a house is made up of shingles and metal, but a home is made by the community and family. 

Do you know of someone in the industry who is ‘doing good deeds’ in their community? Help us catch them at it. Send news and information to info@rooferscoffeeshop.com.