Apr 19 2006
ABC's Emmy-winning hit show Extreme Makeover: Home Edition is back in the New York area, and once again, they called upon New York's Alure Home Improvements to handle the task of helping to rebuild the home of the Arena family, a deserving family in desperate need of some help.
Alure, led by President Sal Ferro, has already performed four major renovations for the Emmy winning show, the most recent completed only a few weeks ago in Jamaica Queens (air date: May 7th). Barely rested from the Queens Makeover, Alure was hesitant at first thought of taking on another major project so quickly, but once Ferro's friend Kathi Cline offered to help out and provide several volunteers, Ferro was much more comfortable and has once again responded to the shows request for helping out a desperate family in need.
"After hearing the Arena's heartbreaking story, I can only imagine how difficult it was for the family. Our team at Alure is committed to rebuilding this home for a very deserving family," said Ferro.
"Sal and I have spoken many times about his past Extreme Makeovers. I can see what these experiences have meant to him and wanted to be a part of the next makeover. I offered to volunteer even if I was required to use a broom. Knowing Sal's generosity and hearing about this family, I agreed to do whatever was needed. I know together we will change this family's life forever," said Cline.
Jimmy "Jimboy" Arena changed an entire community forever. Diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor at five years-old Jimboy stayed strong. He inspired hundreds of neighbors, community members, several fire departments, officials and his own family with his infectious smile and spirit. Everyone in town knew Jimboy and prayed for him. They held fundraisers, birthday parties and even a parade to welcome him home from the hospital. But on September 28th 2005, shortly after his sixth birthday, Jimboy died and the Arena Family lost their only son.
The Arena's had saved enough money to repair and add onto their small home for their growing family but, when Jimboy was diagnosed, the funds went to experimental treatments across the country, medical care and travel expenses. Now the same community who supported Jimboy wants to pay tribute to him and help his family fix their broken home. After all, it was Jimboy who touched them all so deeply and he would've wanted this for his mom, dad and all of his sisters who took care of him.
A large Italian clan the Arena's can't enjoy a dinner together even though Mom Gina, loves to cook. Their small, 1400 square-foot rundown house has seen its share of wear and tear from the kids and is literally falling apart and bursting at the seams! With SIX daughters and one bathroom, the Arena's are in desperate need of bigger and better facilities!
In this episode of "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" we learn how one little boy changed the lives of hundreds as we help his family get back on their feet and into a better and more accommodating home.
"Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" is produced by Endemol USA, a division of Endemol Holding. David Goldberg is the president of Endemol USA. The series is executive-produced by Tom Forman and co-executive produced by Denise Cramsey. The show airs Sundays (8:00-9:00 p.m. ET), on the ABC Television Network.