Historic Local Advocate Ida Louise Cravens-Lewis

Hello, My name is Vartinez, and I am one of the grandchildren of Mrs. Ida Cravens Lewis, whom we call "Granny". She is 92 years old, and we would like to do a fundraiser for her.

As a historical part of the black community of Kansas City, Missouri, Mrs. Lewis advocated in the 60's and 70's for our community along with many other local civil activists and activities, she:

A. Joined the March on Washington defending equal rights and justice.

B. Successfully advocated for housing tenants to govern themselves and became one of the housing managers at the "Wayne Minor" Projects.

C. She often volunteered at and operated different battered women's shelters.

D. She was an integral member of the beginning of "Harvesters" in the Kansas City Area

E. She worked against unfair practices within the city government

As she aged into her 70's, she voluntarily took care of her elders; family, friends, and strangers.

She became the sole owner after her husband, Archie Lewis passed. She has developed a new disability that she suffers from. When the country was feeling the devastating effects of COVID, she had to be hospitalized. She is now dealing with "Long term effects of COVID" and has differing health complications from it.

Her home was built in 1905 and is suffering the effects of over a century of wear from time and weather.

It still has it's original boiler system, with steam radiators, which needs to be replaced and pipes have been tested and found to have asbestos. Several companies have been contacted (i.e. ABMay, etc.) with quotes of a minimum of $28,000 to repair, much more to replace the system with a central heating system which would include new duct work and a central A/C unit. In addition, her home has been struck by lightning several times and needs wiring and plumbing.

She resides in a county where there were recent miscalculation, that more than doubled her property taxes. As an elderly person living on a fixed income, there is no way she will be able to pay for all of these things that are sorely needed. Our family had an idea to ask Go Fund Me members who, out of the generosity of their hearts and the love for their community and elders, would willingly offer a small donation to help with a few of the repairs.

This is our opportunity as a society to demonstrate that we truly cherish others and desire to carry their burden as well as help one of our pillars of the community. I, in advance, thank you for your prayers and willingness to show your support financially. No donation is too small and will be greatly appreciated.

Respectfully,

Vartinez