Betty Frey, 85, faced a devastating loss on Jan. 15, 2024, when a fire in Polk County consumed almost everything she owned, including her beloved cat. Amidst the ashes of that tragic night, a remarkable journey began for Betty, revealing the extraordinary kindness of strangers and importance of community.
The Tragic Night
On the night of Jan. 15, Betty walked into the bedroom of her Lakeland home, where she’d lived for more than 30 years. Lying down to rest in the dark room, she noticed an unusual light coming from her closet. Suddenly popping and cracking sounds filled the room and a bright white light blinded Betty, followed by thick black smoke filling the space. The electrical fire quickly engulfed her home.
Betty escaped with just the clothes she was wearing. Her wallet got left behind, as did her prescription glasses and her walker. “My cat, Snow, didn’t even make it out,” cried Betty.
Nowhere to Go
Polk County Fire Rescue firefighters were able to retrieve Betty’s wallet, but everything else was beyond saving. Betty spent that night on a neighbor’s couch. The next day, she received a gift card from the American Red Cross. Betty had just enough cash to get a motel room, but that money ran out quickly.
With no money left and nowhere to go, she left the motel and returned to the fire site. Next to Betty’s burned-down home, there was a mini-camper. Although the camper had no running water or electricity, she would reside there while she figured out what to do next.
Kindness from Strangers
Fortunately, a gentleman by the name of David Lopez visited Betty. He and his family deliver food to elderly people. Lopez saw how Betty was living, and he made a post on Facebook asking people for help.
The community responded generously, paying for additional time at the motel, clearing her property and setting up a GoFundMe, which raised more than $13,000. The money raised was used to pay off the remaining balance of Betty’s mortgage on the burned-down house. This enabled her to be eligible for the Polk County Housing and Neighborhood Development Replacement program.
“I’ve never had people treat me with such decency,” Betty said, tearing up.
A Chance to Rebuild
Polk County Code Enforcement staff learned about Betty’s living conditions. They connected her with Housing and Neighborhood Development. The kindness of the community and local government opened the door for Betty to have a fresh start.
Miles Lenhart, a Housing Rehabilitation Specialist, visited with Betty. He shared information with her about assistance she could apply for, specifically the county’s home replacement program.
The home replacement program helps vulnerable residents by replacing nearly 20 homes per year. To qualify, residents must meet guidelines that demonstrate their need and vulnerability. Funds for the homes come from the State Housing Initiative Partnership (SHIP).
Although Betty was skeptical, she pushed those feelings aside and began the process of applying for a new home with the help of the county. She met with officials, completed paperwork, provided bank statements and proof that her mortgage was paid off.
To Betty’s surprise, she was approved to receive a new house. Upon signing the contract for the construction of her new home, the county will issue a one-time stipend of $3,500. These funds can be used to assist Betty with any needs she may have until the home is completed.
For the time being, Betty is residing in an apartment.
Time to Build
Construction should begin on Betty’s three-bedroom, two-bathroom block house by April 2025. The house will have accessibility features, such as lever handles rather than knobs on the doors and grab bars in the roll-in shower, to make life easier for Betty.
After a 15-year lien expires, Betty will own the house outright. She will still need to pay property taxes and homeowner’s insurance, but she won’t be in debt to Polk County.
“I’ve learned to accept the fact that, if Polk County tells me they’re going to do something, they’re going to do it,” Betty said.
On that tragic night less than a year ago, Betty lost so much. With the help from the community and county, Betty can look forward to a bright year ahead. Though it’s uncertain when construction will be complete, Betty has big plans for the day she can move in.
“I want to have a party,” Betty said. “I want to invite everyone who has helped me, and have them fill my house. That would be a great feeling.”
“If Betty’s throwing a party,” said Lenhart, “I would love to be there!”
To follow Betty’s story and learn about Polk County news, visit www.Polk-County.net for updates.
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