DETROIT – Less than 24 hours after sharing her story about the damage to her home on Local 4 News, Nadine Rivers received an unexpected phone call from Detroit native and Indianapolis Colts player Sauce Gardner.
Gardner told Rivers not to worry.
He and his partners with Supreme Construction Group were stepping in to help.
On Friday, a crew from Supreme Construction Group arrived at Rivers’ east side home to clear debris and begin developing a plan to repair the property.
The team said it saw Rivers’ story on Local 4 Thursday. Strong winds from the tornado shattered every window in the home and caused the front porch to collapse.
Rivers said she does not have insurance, and her family has been living in hotels while resources continue to run low.
“Honestly, we saw the article on the news yesterday,” said Hunter Schattler, co-owner of Supreme Construction Group. “As soon as we saw it, we wanted to jump into action and see if we could be of assistance.”
City crews also joined the effort Friday. Detroit’s demolition team arrived with equipment to clear debris from the collapsed porch, while building inspectors assessed the home’s structure and safety.
Detroit Family Services representatives and District 5 Managers and team were also at the home to offer support.
The outpouring of help left Rivers overwhelmed with gratitude.
“I told you I’m living a Cinderella dream,” Rivers said. “I really am living a Cinderella dream.”
Gardner has an ongoing partnership with the City of Detroit, including helping sponsor the mayor’s Occupy the Summer events and providing rental assistance to several families.
“He’s dedicated,” said Keith Butler, District 5 Manager. “When he’s here and when he’s abroad playing football, he’s tapped into what’s going on in the city. And he’s always willing to help with open arms and open hands.”
For now, Supreme Construction Group is helping Rivers determine the next steps for restoring her home.
“We are just trying to do the best we can to help her out,” said Damian Williamson of Supreme Construction Group. “Hopefully, we can inspire some other people to help somebody out down the road or down the street.”
City staff helped connect Gardner and Supreme Construction Group with Rivers.
Before the demolition team can remove the remaining porch debris and renovations can begin, crews are waiting for the all-clear from DTE Energy to confirm the power has been shut off.
