DETROIT -- While most 11-year-olds are enjoying the summer sun, Sydney Hawkins is on a mission to save her grandmother’s home.

A fire destroyed the Detroit home on Hartwell Street in March 2008.

Hawkins’ grandmother, Sue Kulczyk, has lived on Detroit’s west side since 1963 and said she’s determined rebuild the home in the same location despite being wounded in a drive-by shooting several years ago and two fires.

Video: Girl, 11, Addresses Detroit City Council

But funds are running low.

Kulczyk’s insurance doesn’t cover the entire cost of rebuilding the home to meet current code standards and she is quickly depleting her savings.

Kulczyk has also been battling several health problems. She has had two strokes since 2008 and has trouble speaking. Hawkins has become her voice.

“She’s like my second mom,” said Hawkins.

Tuesday the soon-to-be sixth-grader at Ivan Ludington Magnet Middle School planned to speak in front of Detroit City Council members. She wanted to read the letter she wrote asking for help. “Why isn't there help for people who want to stay in the city like my grandma?” Hawkins wrote.

Hawkins did not get to read her letter to council members Tuesday. She did not sign up properly and council would not interrupt its session to hear her.

Instead, several city council staff members spent time with Hawkins. The city council members will also receive a copy of the 11-year-old’s letter. Hawkins said she is happy her message was heard at all.

“I thought it was very nice for all those people to come and help me and I thought it was a big opportunity to at least talk with them because I really want to help my grandma,” Hawkins said.

The family is hoping for not only financial help but also donated building materials.

Anyone interested in donating should contact Ruth to the Rescue 313-298-WDIV (9348).