After devastating blows from the derecho and Hurricane Beryl, many homeowners across the Houston area are still struggling to recover. For some, like 88-year-old Juana Martinez-Leija, the challenge of repairing and maintaining a home hit hard by the storms is too overwhelming to face alone.
Martinez-Leija has lived in her northeast Houston home for over 40 years. Once a caretaker for Catholic priests at St. Thomas for 30 years, she dedicated her life to serving others. But now, at 88, she finds herself unable to manage the physical labor required to clean up storm damage and make repairs to her aging home.
“I love my home. It’s very strong,” said Martinez-Leija, reflecting on the decades of memories made in her house. But while the structure may be sturdy, recent weather events have taken their toll, and the senior homeowner is not physically able to address the mounting issues alone.
Fortunately, help arrived in the form of “The Restoration Team,” a Houston-based nonprofit that provides free home repairs to low-income families and seniors like Martinez-Leija. The organization is stepping up to assist the most vulnerable in the community with safety upgrades and repairs.
Martinez-Leija’s daughter, Alexandra Avalos, moved in to help her mother manage the home. But after noticing extensive roof leaks and other damage, she realized they needed more than just a helping hand. “I said, ‘I need help,’” Avalos shared. “The branches and this big tree needed to come off the property, and I just couldn’t do it myself.”
That’s when The Restoration Team stepped in. Known for their efforts in helping families across Houston, the team quickly mobilized, addressing critical repairs to the home’s siding and preparing it for a fresh coat of paint. They also plan to restore Martinez-Leija’s beloved garden, once a thriving source of vegetables and pride, which has since become overgrown.
Juana’s story is one of many the nonprofit has touched.
Just last year, The Restoration Team rebuilt the home of war veteran Jessie Lara and provided much-needed repairs to the home of 87-year-old George Tisdale.
Now, it’s Juana’s turn to receive a fresh start.
“I never imagined so many people would come to help,” said Martinez-Leija tearfully. Her daughter added, “We are so thankful. These volunteers are truly the salt of the earth, and we’re just so appreciative of everything they’ve done.”
The Restoration Team’s work doesn’t just stop at repairing homes; they’re rebuilding lives and fostering a sense of community. For Martinez-Leija, that means a safe, secure home where she can continue to enjoy her morning coffee on the patio and perhaps even tend to her garden once again.
As Houston continues to recover from the aftermath of recent storms, it’s clear that organizations like The Restoration Team are making all the difference, one home at a time.
To keep doing all of that work, The Restoration Team could use your help. If you want to volunteer- or if you want to donate money, click here.
