MT. VERNON, IL — A local disabled Army Veteran and his wife signed a contract Monday for a new roof on their home in Mt. Vernon, thanks to area efforts to raise funds needed to have the old roof replaced.

According to Dave Keen who spearheaded the movement to help Jeff and Jennifer Williams replace their old leaking roof, the group met its $10,000 fundraising goal in just over a week.

Keen says the initial goal was to fix the front and top portion of the roof, which were in the worst condition. But because of community’s generosity, the entire roof will be replaced.

The anticipated cost is $21,000. But with Alpha and Omega General Manager Cory W. Norville and owner Justin Matthews donating materials needed for the job and donated materials from Coating Applications and Water Proofing Company of St. Louis, the $10,000 cash raised should be enough to pay for the project.

Another $2,000 or so may still need to be raised for unknown costs such as decking, Keen says.

They are looking to start on the roof within the next few weeks. Special thanks to the Alpha and Omega Team.

Keen thanks everyone who has stepped up to help a disabled veteran in need.

He also invites all veterans to an appreciation picnic this week from noon to p.m. Sunday at Veterans Memorial Park in Mt. Vernon.

All Jefferson County residents who served in the military are invited along with their family members for the free BBQ and fixings provided by the Frosty Mug.

All Veterans will receive a special Proud to be a JC Veteran Lapel Pin sponsored by the Mt. Vernon Elks.