GATEWAYS TO CHANGE – NON-PROFIT LEARNING CENTER CRANSTON, RHODE ISLAND
The Challenge
During the early morning of Saturday, February 4th, Rhode Island experienced a historic freeze that caused numerous pipes to burst, including at Gateways to Change, a non-profit learning and recreational center for developmentally disabled adults. A burst pipe in the second-floor kitchen spilled hundreds of gallons of water into the building causing damage to every room in the property. Because the center is closed on weekends, no one was aware that a serious disaster was unfolding inside — until the Cranston Fire Department noticed water streaming from the building and alerted the owner. Several disaster restoration companies were called, but all of them
declined the work, stating they were too busy serving other customers.
The Solution
Luckily, the next call was made to Rhode Island Restoration. Although also inundated with work from the freeze, the company recognized the importance of the center in maintaining a stabilized routine and the mental well-being of its clients. As such, getting the center functional again became a top priority. To get things rolling, an emergency mitigation crew was dispatched immediately to begin the process of cleaning up the building and assessing the damage. Work needed to begin ASAP to minimize further damage and prevent mold, which was already beginning to develop beneath the soaked flooring and walls. Working quickly and strategically using proven IICRC structural drying and reconstruction methods was necessary to prevent an extended closure of the center.
The Results
Thanks to the swift response and efforts of the Rhode Island Restoration, the center did not have to close for an extended period. They collaborated with the owner on cost-effective and non-invasive reconstruction plans. All went smoothly providing reassurance for its clients and allowing Gateways to Change to continue its operations with minimal disruption.