VENTNOR -
People all over are still recovering from Sandy, and that's no different in South Jersey where many people are still picking up the pieces.
But members of the Ventnor community, past and present are hoping to make it easier by providing those in need with some of the basic necessities.
It was a warm homecoming for Chris Bickel who showed up to the city he once called home with not just one, but three buses worth of donations for those still suffering from Sandy.
"I just felt this was the right thing to do. To give back to the community that gave me so much."
When Bickel was in 8th grade his mother passed away and his father left the family of ten.
He say's they were homeless and when things looked to be at their worst it was those in the Ventnor community that stood by his side.
"I am eternally grateful for what this community did for me. They embraced me and took care of me," said Bickel.
Once he heard about Sandy's destruction in his former hometown, Bickel began collecting donations at the Livingston Public Schools in Essex County where he now lives and works, hoping to bring hurricane relief to South Jersey by the bus load.
Marisol Taeia is one of the many people who is still suffering. She says the clothing donations will help her get back on her feet.
"It was very nice to know we are still loved by these people. It's great because we didn't know what to do. We didn't know where to get help," said Ventnor resident, Marisol Taeia.
And while Bickel says this one act of kindness will never be enough to thank those from his past, he hopes it's the start of better things to come.
