When Ops Manager Tony Rebimbas applied to be a part of the show George to the Rescue, he had no idea how many people would join together to take care of his family.
Tony’s 14-year-old son, Bryan, has autism and cerebral palsy. Despite his challenges, Bryan is a very happy kid who loves animals – especially Tyak, his Canine Companion dog – big machines, trucks and spending time with his younger sisters. When he’s physically able, Bryan rides horses for fun and as a Special Olympics equestrian competitor.
In the summer of 2015, Bryan had a surgical procedure on his leg and is now permanently in a wheelchair. The tight doorways in the Rebimbas’ two-story home and lack of a handicap accessible bathroom quickly became a serious issues for Bryan’s safety. While looking for options to help modify their home, Tony and his wife, Marissa, applied to be a part of George to the Rescue, a nationally syndicated TV show where host George Oliphant and his team of contractors and designers rescue the homes of deserving people.
Once their application was accepted, things started to move quickly. During a site visit to the Rebimbas’ home, George heard about The Homer Fund, The Home Depot’s nonprofit charity that helps take care of associates in need. Inspired by The Homer Fund, George’s team reached out to Tony’s store in Bridgewater, N.J., to see how The Home Depot could get involved. A few conversations later, The Homer Fund and Team Depot were both set into action, led by store manager John Pingitore and district manager Dorel Barbos.
“We knew we had to do the right thing for Tony and his family,” said John. “Tony works so hard at his job and then goes home to take care of his family. It’s the least we could do to help make sure Bryan was safe in his home.”
Team Depot volunteers joined the George to the Rescue team to help prep the home for renovations and install hardwood flooring throughout the main level of the home.
“This project was all about giving Bryan some independence and accessibility in his home,” said host George Oliphant. “Tony had no idea that his coworkers were sneaking in here to make sure that everything was perfect for their coworker, friend and family. And that’s what it’s all about: community coming together.”
