Spearheaded by PEA President Rich Vogel, with Vecenergy, Broward County’s homeless can look forward to being able to use a slew of furniture and other goods in their very near future.

Thanks to the generosity of Pier 66 hotel, bureaus, desks, chairs, lamps, bed sheeting and other goods were donated to several agencies dedicated to providing housing and shelter to the homeless living in Broward County.

There was one big need, however. Much of the furniture and goods needed to be stored in safe keeping for a period of months. That’s where Port Everglades Association came in.

Vogel tapped fellow PEA board member Kris Hopkins with Seafarers International Union and PEA Vice President Patrick Collins with Crowley. Vogel’s company, which includes South Florida Petroleum and Ranger Construction, and the Seafarers International Union combined to bring together more than 35 volunteer workers to load the furniture. Crowley provided two giant shipping containers -- both filled to capacity, and also will provide space in their secure yard to hold the containers until such time as Broward’s facility is ready to take custody and put them to good use.

Peg Buchan was on site to represent the Port Director’s office. Volunteers were thanked for their hard work and were treated to special Port Everglades caps.

“This was a total team effort,” said Vogel. “Our companies and the Port Everglades Association feel very strongly about helping and giving back to our great community. We are glad we could provide help the truly needy people here in Broward County.”

PEA Board member Anitra Lanzci was one of the volunteers toiling through heat and humidity for the three-hour effort. “It was an inspiration to see such a large-scale, unified group demonstrate their commitment,” she said.

“We’re the lucky ones,” said Seafarers International Union’s Kris Hopkins. “We have jobs to go to. We have families. We have homes. But we know many, many people living in our County do not. That’s what we are all about—helping those who are not as fortunate.”