Security Engineered Machinery Co., Inc. (SEM), global leader in high security information end-of-life solutions, donated $2,500 to the Habitat for Humanity MetroWest/Greater Worcester (Habitat) #BeamOfHope fund to support local veteran families in need during the coronavirus crisis. During a fundraising drive in the month of May, SEM employees pledged $1,250 and SEM provided a 100% match.
“During the current pandemic, Habitat for Humanity made a plea for some desperately-needed funds, and SEM answered the call,” commented Nicholas Cakounes, SEM Executive Vice President. “We’ve partnered with this incredible organization in the past, and we’d hate to see this crisis leave them unable to assist veterans who are struggling to find or keep housing.”
As a Veteran-owned company that supplies critical equipment to the Department of Defense and other government organizations, SEM is committed to Habitat’s mission of assisting Veterans. Since 2018, SEM has participated annually in Operation Playhouse, a unique program offered through Habitat for Humanity enabling local businesses and organizations to build and donate a custom playhouse to benefit the children of local veterans and military personnel. Habitat’s #BeamOfHope Crisis Fund was implemented as the organization is struggling for revenue amid a crisis where not many people are suited to donate due to the impact of the global coronavirus pandemic. SEM stands with Habitat in hopes they can continue serving those most in need.
“We were honored to give to Habitat for Humanity as their non-profit does so much good for veterans who need homes. We hope this donation along with others helps them serve those who need it most and to survive this financial crisis,” added David DiTullio, SEM’s Vice President of Finance.
Deborah Huegel, Vice President of Philanthropy of Metrowest Habitat for Humanity, commented, “We are so grateful for SEM’s support of local veteran families, especially during this health crisis when so many families are having a tough time surviving the economy’s upheaval. SEM has been and is a wonderful supporter, and we thank them from the bottom of our hearts for being so generous! It will be put to good use protecting those who are vulnerable.”
SEM’s 2020 Operation Playhouse build, originally scheduled for this past May, has been postponed to October of 2020 due to COVID-19.