Coal Region community cares for its own
When someone is ill or injured in the Coal Region, residents spring into action.
They may not know the person directly, but it seems their hearts are made of gold and their pockets always open.
Since Rob Marrero's accident, his family has been grateful for help from the community.
Spaghetti dinners, bake sales, a dance, raffles and a bike run are all events that have helped the Marreros cope with expenses associated with Rob's accident.
"There are so many good people, some that I've never met," Rob said.
His wife, Carrie, named a few organizations that have given their support, such as the Nesquehoning Sokol Club, Summit Hill Italian Club, The Hope of Christ Presbyterian Church, Lansford Legion Riders, AMVETS Post 83, Heather Pontruff of Trucking Santas, Rob's Gefa teammates and, especially Rob's employer, Gordon Food Service of Pottsville, "who has done so much for us without question."
"There are even strangers who have reached out and it's meant the world to us," Carrie continued. "There really are some amazing people in this world."
Carrie is in the process of trying to raise money to purchase a handicap accessible van for Rob.
"Our insurance company is giving us a hard time covering his transportation to doctors' appointments etc. that he needs to get to," Carrie said.
"It's definitely been our most recent and top struggle."
To help with this, two fundraisers are currently in the works the Breaker Boys semi-pro football team season opener in Summit Hill, and a Thirty One purse online book party, organized through consultant Susan Salerno.
The Breaker Boys season opener will start at noon Sunday, March 25, at the Ginter Field, 40 W. Amidon St., Summit Hill.
During the game, the team will collect $6 donations, which represent Rob's jersey number when he played for the team, as well as the Mountain Top Reapers.
There will be a variety of other items for sale to help with the purchase of the van.
A PayPal account has also been set up for donations at www.paypal.com. Click on "Send Money" under the personal tab.
The email account attached to the fund is carrie.marrero@yahoo.com.
For more information about fundraisers or to donate, contact Carrie at carrie.marrero@yahoo.com.
