Help a New Orleans carpenter replace his stolen tools & van

Late January 19, near Piety and Dauphine streets, thieves stole carpenter Marcus Steinfelds' work van. Inside was his entire livelihood—essential tools amassed over decades, including antique woodworking planers, chisels, mechanic tool sets, even measuring tapes.

Beyond the devastating emotional impact, Marcus lost his ability to provide for his wife and toddler son. During his 22 years in New Orleans, Marcus’ thoughtful craftmanship has rescued countless homes, including mine. After Katrina, he repaired damaged historic houses in the Lower 9th Ward, Bywater, 7th Ward, Gentilly and Uptown.

Marcus estimates a used van will run around $4,000 and tools (spokeshaves, chisels, painting and drywall kits, multitools, grinders, power cords, mechanic tool sets, countless specialty hand tools, an air compressor for pneumatic nail guns, power saws) around $5,000. Let’s help him replace those items so he can support his family and get back to work restoring 19th- and early 20th-century homes citywide, upholding and strengthening the New Orleans we all love.