Sofield said LBCA helps cover any cost associated with getting families back into their homes. Sometimes that involves buying new mattresses so a family doesn’t have to sleep on the floor, or new kitchen appliances so they could cook again. Sometimes that involves helping pay for construction costs, like electricians, plumbers or contractors. The organization has even helped students — who were affected by the storm and are active in community service — with college tuition.

Sofield said that funds are granted on a case-by-case basis. She said that there are no guarantees, but that a very low percentage of people are denied assistance. She said many middle-class families who may not think they would be eligible for help are with LBCA. She said that if a family needs something to rebuild, but are not able to purchase it, a need exists and LBCA may be able to help. And with many insurance companies not paying out, many Long Beach residents have an unmet need, Sofield said.

“If the gap is not too big, we try to fill the gap,” Sofield said. “[We do] something to try to make people whole. It’s been a long process for a lot of these homeowners that have been struggling.”

One of the only requirements the organization has is that applicants must be forthcoming with their financial information. Sofield said that she requests to see paperwork detailing applicant’s income, insurance policies and Federal Emergency Management Agency payouts, to make sure that LBCA’s money is going to people who really need it.

The Long Beach Christmas Angel is holding its 12th annual holiday fundraiser this Saturday, Dec. 6, where the organization will honor many of the individuals and groups who helped the LBCA over the last year. They will be recognizing the Robin Hood Foundation for its donations, and the Knights of Columbus, for everything it did to feed, clothe and aid Long Beach residents in the weeks after the Sandy.