Help Reggie Williams Secure a New Home

My home of 33 years has sustained permanent structural damage due to the roots of a neighboring tree compromising the foundation (please see the news spot above). The tree that damaged my home is known as a "Tree of Heaven" and is on Portland's nuisance species list because of its rapid and destructive root growth. In my case, the roots have compromised the integrity of my home's foundation, leading to water intrusion and toxic mold growth, which is especially dangerous, as I have been diagnosed with COPD and emphysema.

The tree that destroyed my home is located on a neighbor's lot, but nevertheless I was forced to pay to have it removed and I was fined by the City of Portland for doing so. Neither my neighbor nor Habitat for Humanity (the builder of the neighboring house) has taken responsibility for the damage or compensated me for the engineering, legal, and medical costs I have incurred throughout this ordeal. I do have homeowners insurance, but unfortunately the company has refused to pay out for the damage to my home.

Due to the extent of the damage my house cannot simply be repaired. Sadly, it must be demolished, the foundation removed, and, according to engineers, the underlying ground must lie fallow for three to five years before a new foundation can be laid.

I have lived in this house since 1988 and have raised my twin daughters here. Despite falling on hard times and having twice been homeless, I was able to save up enough money and pay off my mortgage by moving pianos. As much as I love my home, and the memories that come with it, it has become too dangerous to live in, so, at 62 years old, I am forced to start over. With no pride, I am asking for your help to help me build a new home and pay down the legal fees that I have incurred over the past several years battling the City of Portland and Habitat for Humanity.

Thank you for reading and for your kind consideration.

Sincerely,

Reggie Williams