Volunteers Assess Damage, Plan Repairs at Port Allen Veteran's Home

$5,000 donated toward roof as community response grows

PORT ALLEN — Two days after a Port Allen police officer offered to help a fellow veteran facing property concerns, volunteers were on site Friday assessing damage and coordinating repairs.

Theodore "Ted" Melancon, a veteran who neighbors say served in the Korean War, watched from his yard as a roofer inspected his damaged roof, a dumpster was delivered, and volunteers began organizing cleanup efforts.

"I know that God sent the army," Melancon said.

The roof assessment revealed the joists are sound, but the home needs new plywood decking and shingles. The front porch will be completely rebuilt, and a deteriorating structure in the back will be torn down and replaced.

Beau Bergeron assessed the roof. Durand Eaves of J&E Services is helping with handyman work and temporary fixes, including tarping the roof. A donor contributed $5,000 toward roofing materials. A material list is being finalized.

Caleb Kleinpeter was on site and contacted the Louisiana Secretary of Veterans Affairs on Melancon's behalf to explore additional assistance.

Port Allen Mayor Terecita Pattan and council members Charlene Gordon, Gregory Payne, Gary Hubble, and Adrian Joseph visited the property Friday.

Volunteers have organized into teams handling different aspects of the project: yard cleanup, outdoor maintenance, and repairs. Roofing plans are being finalized. Interior cleaning will be planned once exterior work is complete.

Local businesses and residents have stepped up. Bridget Rabalais Easley and Todd E. Easley donated a dumpster and porta potty. Southern Blades LLC is cutting the grass free of charge. Cady Maintenance is helping remove vehicles and clean the grounds.

A SpotFund campaign has been established for direct donations to Melancon. Organizers say cash donations are most helpful right now.

How to help:

Melancon has asked that volunteers not show up unannounced. Toddie Milstead is his point of contact. Those interested in helping can join the Facebook group at facebook.com/groups/719129041041235.

Organizers ask that donations be coordinated through the group rather than dropped off unexpectedly. WBR Independent is handling media updates and community communications for the group.

"If you want to donate something, donate money," one volunteer said during Friday's planning meeting.

Spotfund Donations. http://spot.fund/w53rhhzsc