The National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) has provided flooring for its 15th home in partnership with the Gary Sinise Foundation R.I.S.E. program (Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment). The R.I.S.E. program builds custom, specially adapted smart homes for severely wounded veterans and first responders. The home dedication for U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Lucas Cifka (Ret.) took place on June 15, in Canyon Lake, Texas. Flooring for the project was donated by NWFA member Swiff-Train.
SSgt. Cifka was injured in Afghanistan in 2013 when he stepped on an improvised explosive device (IED), resulting in the loss of both his legs, multiple broken bones, and numerous other injuries. He has endured more than 30 surgeries and continues to learn to walk again using prosthetic legs.
“One of the things that makes this home unique is that it is the third GSF R.I.S.E. home to be built in this neighborhood,” says NWFA President and CEO, Michael Martin. “In fact, one of the previous recipients lives right next door, so Sergeant Cifka and his family will have a great support network in their new home. What the Gary Sinise Foundation is able to provide for these heroes is truly life-changing, and NWFA is honored to partner with its members to play a small part in making these homes possible.”
In addition to the 15 homes already completed, NWFA currently is working with its members to source wood flooring for 26 additional R.I.S.E. homes in various stages of planning and construction. Currently, 40 NWFA member companies have donated product, logistics, and installation services in locations throughout the United States, with a total value of more than $1.3 million. A list of all NWFA R.I.S.E. partners is listed at http://www.nwfa.org/giving-back.aspx.
By the end of this year, 59 specially adapted smart homes will be completed or underway through the Gary Sinise Foundation R.I.S.E. program. To learn more about the program, and how you and/or your company can get involved, contact the NWFA at 800.422.4556, or e-mail anita.howard@nwfa.org.