Restore Church St. The Community House

On June 26, 2023, Gainell, Lionel, Ashli, and Alex's family home erupted in a fire. The fire was a traumatic experience, as a young child, Gainell and Alex were in the home as the fire erupted. Our family has lost everything, including our belongings, sense of security, and stability. We need your help to rebuild our home which has been in our family since the 1960's. Purchased by our Gandfather (Oscar C Johnson) with the vision of this home being a safe space for his kids and the generations to come, that is exactly what church st. was an will be again a safe space for many community members. From our Gandfathers vision to our Mothers (Debbie K Johnson) mission. Church St. was home to many community members in need, it is a place where kids congregate on the porch, where the neighbors walk by and ask when will there be another barbecue.

Members of our family has serviced the Portland community eagerly. We have dedicated our lives and careers to working for nonprofit and government agencies that exist to serve the community and underserved populations. We are known for our generosity and kindness, and we have positively impacted the lives of so many people.

Gentrification has taken its toll on us, affecting our ability to obtain essential home insurance coverage. In the midst of the transforming King neighborhood, skyrocketing property values forced us to invest in costly upgrades and improvements just to meet the insurance requirements. Unfortunately, insurance companies often view older homes in such neighborhoods as high-risk areas, leading to inflated premiums or in our case denial of coverage for homeowners insurance. This discriminatory practice further exacerbates the economic disparities and housing inequities faced by Black families, leaving them without adequate home insurance protection. we ask you to help Restore a home that will house and feed many. all the Donation will go towards medical expenses, replace belongings, find temporary housing and most importantly to restore Church st.

#RestoringChurchStreet

Please donate whatever you can to help our family rebuild our home.

Your donation will make a difference. It will help our family get back on our feet and continue to make a positive impact on the world.

Thank you for your support.