A community has come together to extend a heartfelt gesture of gratitude and support to a true American hero. Freddy Jimenezdejesus, an Albany native and U.S. Marine Corps veteran who proudly defended his country, found himself facing financial challenges that seemed insurmountable during the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, his story took an inspiring turn when the Capital Region community, led by Pinnacle Roofing in collaboration with Owens Corning and Habitat for Humanity Capital District, embarked on a mission to provide Jimenezdejesus with more than just a new roof—it became a symbol of hope, unity and unwavering support.
Jimenezdejesus had enlisted in the Marine Corps right after high school. He says his motivation was clear: to protect the Constitution and serve the nation that had given him and his family so much. For four years, he dedicated himself to the cause, embodying the spirit of service that defines the Marines. However, when his military service concluded, a new chapter brought unforeseen challenges.
As COVID-19 pandemic swept the nation, with it came economic uncertainty for many, including Freddy and his girlfriend. Both faced layoffs, and while unemployment provided some relief, it wasn’t a sustainable solution. As unemployment benefits dwindled and job opportunities remained scarce, they found themselves in a precarious financial situation. It was a time of uncertainty, as they depleted their savings just to make ends meet.
“You know, like for us, it’s not like we really didn’t have the funds to do it,” Freddy said. “We’re really short. I mean, this is $15,000. You know, we’re in a recession now. A lot of people can’t just come up with that kind of money.”
The turning point came when Pinnacle Roofing, an Albany-based roofing company, joined hands with Owens Corning and Habitat for Humanity Capital District to make a profound difference in Freddy’s life. This collaborative effort was not just about repairing a roof; it was about mending lives and restoring hope.
“There’s a few groups here that are giving back to the veterans that have dedicated a lot of time, a lot of effort to serve and protect us,” Pinnacle Roofing Inc. site supervisor Gregory Musk said. “And this is us trying to help out in any way that we can and give back to them with the service, which is providing a new roof, masonry work on a chimney, they’re getting gutters and things like that.”
The team from Pinnacle Roofing contributed their labor, while Owens Corning supplied roofing materials. Other local businesses joined the cause.
“A program like this will definitely save us some money down the road,” Jimenezdejesus said. “We don’t have to replace slate. We won’t have to worry about replacing the whole roof. Definitely — it’s a life-changing event.”
As Jimenezdejesus watched the dedicated crew work tirelessly, he couldn’t help but be reminded of his Marine Corps days.
“It’s at least 100 degrees out here,” he said. “I know these guys are working very hard. And when I saw them working, I said, Marine, we don’t stand to watch. We’re right in the fight. So when I saw them work, I wanted to be part of it.”
The project embodies more than just a roof repair; it symbolizes the community’s support for veterans like Freddy and their families.