The personal resiliency showed by our communities 8 years ago after Superstorm Sandy is what we need now to battle the COVID-19 pandemic

As he looked back to eight years ago when Superstorm Sandy ravaged large parts of his district like the Rockaways, Broad Channel, Hamilton Beach, Howard Beach, and many others, State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. believes that some residents will use what they learned during that tragic time to help make it through the COVID-19 pandemic.

On October 29, 2012, Superstorm Sandy left behind a trail of destruction. Addabbo stated, “Lives were lost, houses were flooded, businesses were closed, and many people lost everything they worked their entire lives for. However, when things looked their bleakest, we all came together the way a true community does and helped each other rebuild through that extremely difficult time.”

Eventually people were able to return to their homes, businesses reopened and served the communities again, and some areas came back stronger than before.

“That same strength and resiliency that we showed in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy is exactly what is needed today, as we all continue to manage this coronavirus pandemic that is affecting everyone,” Addabbo said.

Due to the COVID virus, the Senator emphasized that some of his constituents have passed away, businesses are either closed or struggling to remain open, and residents have lost their jobs at historic rates.

“We need to come together and do what needs to be done in order to protect, not just our own families and interests, but to protect our communities as a whole. I am proud to say that the communities in my district are doing their best and keeping the COVID-19 infection rates and hospitalizations down, so our essential healthcare workers can continue to battle this virus on the front lines,” Addabbo concluded. “And just as there is still more to do in the fallout of Superstorm Sandy even eight years later — such as expanding protections for coastal communities, advancing local NY Rising projects and preparing for the next storm — we still need to continue to follow guidelines and safety measures like washing your hands and wearing a mask to keep COVID-19 at bay.”