Emma Byas has lived in her home for many years and will be 83 this June. She is a beloved member of her community and a 20+ year member of East Liberty Presbyterian Church, but now faces an urgent crisis that threatens her health and safety. A large, hazardous tree on her property has already crushed her main sewer line, leaving her without access to essential household water needs since February. Living on a fixed income, Emma cannot afford the high cost of removing the tree or repairing the damage it has caused.

The situation has become even more critical. The tree's roots are not only damaging the foundation of Emma's home, but also those of two neighboring properties. There is now a 13-foot hole in her yard that cannot be repaired until the tree is removed, and bricks and stones from her front porch are displaced. Importantly, the porch—made from brick and stone—must be removed before any sewer repairs can be completed, making the process even more complex and urgent. A professional assessment from Davey Tree has determined that the tree is at high risk of falling, posing a direct threat to the lives of residents, pedestrians, and even traffic—raising the risk of a potentially fatal accident. The tree is a community staple, well-known to neighbors, making its removal a significant event for everyone. Without immediate action, the risk of structural collapse or physical injury grows every day.

Funds raised will go directly to removing the hazardous tree, repairing the yard (including filling the 13-foot hole), demolishing and rebuilding the brick and stone porch, and fixing the damaged sewage line. These repairs are essential for Emma's health and well-being, and cannot be completed until the porch is removed. Any support you can provide will help restore safety to Emma's home and protect her, her neighbors, and the community from further harm. Thank you for your kindness and generosity.