Siena helps move-in twin freshmen impacted by floods

LOUDONVILLE – Hurricane Ida delayed twin sisters downstate from coming to Siena College on time.

Once the school found out the incoming freshmen were in trouble, they pitched in to help.

Ava and Alexa Filippone live in Edgemont, Westchester County. It’s just north of New York City. Hurricane Ida caused severe flooding at their house.

They say their basement was flooded, and two of their cars were submerged in water. This caused them to miss the start of freshmen orientation week. Once officials at Siena found out, they decided to help.

Siena College’s admissions team sent a van to their house Friday morning to pick up the sisters. Their parents followed behind in a car.

Every year, Siena has a special way to welcome their incoming freshman. Student leaders help move the students into their dorms. Siena still wanted to make sure the Filippones had that experience. Students and even their mascot helped them as they moved in. The family is forever thankful.

"Our basement was under complete water, about five feet, and our cars were submerged, everything was submerged. We were going to rent cars to get up here. Luckily, a family member gave us their truck. Siena was so wonderful to send a van for all the girls’ stuff. We couldn’t appreciate it more."

Hear why one of the twins says the brief delay was actually a good thing for her, by watching the video of Jonathan Hunter’s story.