This morning, PRTR met Mr. Fisher at the St. Louis Development Corporation to sign the last dotted line which will officially put the home Jerreld Fisher has owned for over 3 decades into his own name.  For the past several months, PRTR has worked to raise funds for this very moment.  We would like to thank everyone who donated, shared Mr. Fisher’s story, and showed up in support and solidarity to make this happen.  Big thanks also to Chris Naffziger at St. Louis Magazine for covering Mr. Fisher’s story.

We now enter the next phase of the project: turning Mr. Fisher’s house back into his home.  After a few years on Social Security income, struggling to balance tax payments and just barely keep things functional, Mr. Fisher’s home could use a little TLC to make it a comfortable space for the Navy veteran to retire, and someday leave to his only child, his 8-year-old daughter Jericha.

The St. Louis Land Reutilization Authority gives a project completion window of 18 months for anyone who purchases property from them to complete required repairs.  Whether a developer or a regular citizen purchasing their home back after confiscation for delinquent taxes, the 18-month deadline is intended to ensure the property meets all City building codes and occupancy requirements.  (Otherwise, the LRA reserves the right to take the property back.)  Ms. Dee at the LRA assures us she will work with us if we end up requiring an extension on this critical deadline.

If you’re a handyman or handywoman, a contractor, affiliated with a community outreach organization, or just a helpful volunteer who wants to lend a hand for Mr. Fisher’s home repairs, please e-mail[email protected] to see how you can get involved!

Again, THANK YOU TO EVERYONE who helped make this crazy dream a reality.  Pat yourselves on the back, and expect an invitation to Mr. Fisher’s house re-warming party!