Sears helps Katrina recovery efforts

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill. Sears and the Blue Appliance Crew are joining forces with the national non-profit Rebuilding Together's New Orleans, RTNO, and Archie Manning and his wife to restore two important properties in the Holy Cross neighborhood.

The Mannings will join Sears and Rebuilding Together on Thursday to celebrate the renovation of a 3,000 square foot Community Center that supports the affiliate's mission. On Saturday, Sears, the Mannings and Rebuilding Together will turn the keys of homeownership back to Army Corps veteran Geraldine Bush. Both properties are located in a neighborhood that was hardest hit by Hurricane Katrina. Sears donated $70,000 to rebuild the Community Center and Bush's home and is providing Kenmore ENERGY STAR qualified appliances including refrigerators, ranges, washers and dryers.

"We are determined to help deserving families that continue to struggle with the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Through our work at the Community Center and home of Geraldine Bush, we hope to encourage displaced homeowners to return to their former homes and strengthen the sense of community as the city rebuilds," said Doug Moore, senior vice president and president, Home Appliances for Sears.

Geraldine Bush and her brother will be welcomed back home by the Mannings, Kevin Brown, VP and chief marketing officer, home appliances for Sears, Gary Officer, RTNO president and CEO and numerous military and Sears volunteers.