The Bosch Group has contributed $100,000 and Catholic Charities dontaed $20,000 to the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley to assist Lehigh Valley homeowners whose homes were damaged by "Superstorm" Sandy.

On Nov. 14, a task force raised $40,000 and, with a small army of volunteers and paid contractors, began providing up to $1,000 in assistance and repairs to the homes of homeowners who are elderly or disabled. Any owner-occupied home is eligible for assistance if the total household income is roughly less than double the poverty rate. Previously, only seniors and disabled heads of households were eligible.

The "Standing Up To Sandy" program will assist those who have homeowners' insurance by paying the deductible to the company doing the repairs. In the past, the program was limited to those lacking homeowners' insurance. At the discretion of the group, more than $1,000 in repair work can be authorized. HMK Insurance Agency will provide advice to consumers receiving assistance to ensure they receive the proper benefits from their insurer.

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley President Susan Gilmore recognized the leadership of CACLV volunteer Hal Black, Habitat for Humanity, Helping Hands of the Lehigh Valley, Alan Kunsman Roofing, donors including the Northampton County General Purpose Authority, Bill Hecht, the Lehigh Valley Labor Council, ESSA Bank, Catholic Charities and Bosch Group of the project.

Those who think they might be eligible for assistance are encouraged to contact the Community Action Committee of the Lehigh Valley (CACLV) by calling 610-691-5620 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.