South Brunswick Helps Homeless Man Find Permanent Housing

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ — If you need some Christmas cheer, look no further than the South Brunswick community, who extended their goodwill to a man fallen on hard times.

George Smick, whose mother died on Route 1 during the nor’easter, has found permanent housing thanks to the generosity of the community. Smick will be moving into his new home by the first week of January.

“I’m so glad. I now have a place to live without the fear of being evicted,” said an emotional Smick.

Smick and his mother Deborah were evicted from their North Brunswick home in February, and for the past 10 months were living in their car.

Their Ford Explore had broken down at a Wendy's parking lot on Route 1, Dec. 15 before the nor’easter rolled in. Deborah was struck and killed when she tried crossing Route 1 at Deans Lane.

After their story was published, a family friend started a GoFundMe to assist Smick in his recovery. The fundraiser exceeded its goal.

“I never expected the South Brunswick community to support me in the way they did. It hits me right in heart,” said Smick.

“Believe it or not, even though mom is gone, I feel a lot better knowing so many people care about me. I read all the messages online, I can’t thank them enough. I wish I could give them all a hug.”

Joseph Jankowski, who organized the fundraiser for George, said he was overwhelmed with emotion. “The generosity of our community has been tremendous. I want you all to know what you helped to accomplish,” he wrote on the GoFundMe page, providing donors an update on Smick’s situation.

“There is more to come as we are working close with George to make sure he is set for the future,” he wrote.

Since Deborah’s death, Smick has been receiving gift baskets and messages from residents, friends and colleagues.

He has also been invited to a socially-distant Christmas dinner at a local restaurant by one of the men who tried to help Deborah after the accident.

“One of the people on the scene who tried to administer CPR to mom invited me to Christmas dinner at a restaurant. I’m not going to be alone on Christmas Day. I just don’t know what to say...”

After a difficult 2020, Smick is approaching the New Year with renewed hope. “I will get my stuff out of storage and donate all of mom’s clothing. I’m overwhelmed and grateful to South Brunswick,” he said.

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