Montclair Nonprofit 'MESH' Flooded by Burst Pipe, Seeks Community Support

Burst Pipe Causes Major Flooding at MESH

• 💧 A burst pipe has caused significant flooding at Montclair Emergency Services for Hope (MESH), a nonprofit serving the unhoused and food insecure.
• ⚠️ The incident occurred when pipes in vacant upstairs apartments, owned by a building renovator, burst and flooded the ground floor space MESH uses.
• 🌊 Water damage was extensive, with water spilling from windows onto the street, impacting MESH's operations.

Impact on Services and Operations

• 🍽️ MESH, which provides meals, laundry services, free items, and resources six nights a week, is now displaced.
• 🏠 The organization was using the space for free during the building's transition but now needs to find a new temporary or permanent home and pay rent.
• ❄️ The flood occurred during the nonprofit's busiest and most expensive time of year, known as 'respite season,' coinciding with bitterly cold weather.

Community Support and Future Needs

• 🙏 MESH relies primarily on private donors for funding and receives food at a discount from local restaurants.
• 🤝 Despite the flood, MESH has continued serving dinner thanks to support from two local churches and operates an overnight shelter at another church.
• 🆘 The organization is appealing for community help, stating they have a long way to go and need assistance to secure a new location and continue their vital services.