Help Restore Linda’s Home

My home was flooded with over four feet of water on August 15, 2016 (my birthday), from a storm that lingered over Louisiana for several days. The cover photo was taken a few days later as the flood water was receding and shows how high the water got. It had never flooded in the past, so I did not have flood insurance.

The flood changed my life forever. My house and half acre of land suffered extensive damage. I lost all my furniture, appliances, flooring, and 90% of other belongings (some of which are shown in the photos). It all had to be dragged out onto the road to be picked up by trash collectors. I was able to save family photos, thank goodness. There were other setbacks as a result of the flooding. My late husband had a work shop stocked with tools and equipment, and it was all stolen. The water well had to be replaced at a cost of $2,000, trees died and had to be cut down ($3,000), and the back yard fence had to be taken down. I am now required to buy flood insurance in addition to homeowners. Flood Insurance is $2,200 a year for coverage of just half the value of my house. Full coverage would cost $3000-$4,000 a year.

I have been living this nightmare for over two years. I'm at my wits end because I have run out of money and can't afford to pay anyone to do the repairs. The yard is a mess and I can't pay anyone to do the work. I'm constantly on the verge of panic. I'm 71 years old, live on a fixed income, and have no children to help me. I live in constant fear for my future because of the extreme stress and lack of funds. I really need help and would be very grateful indeed for financial assistance to get my home and property back to livable condition.

Thank you for your help - Linda Everett

PS - I just want to add that never in my 71 years have I asked anyone for anything. I made my own way in life. I got my first job when I was 16 and worked until age 65. I hate asking for money from strangers, but have never been in a situation like this and have nowhere else to turn.