Tis the season….Tyler Perry Helps Senior Couple Rebuild Home After Contractor Scam

A generous act of kindness has helped restore the lives of Dorothy and George Williams, an elderly couple from southwest Atlanta, who faced years of hardship after a contractor scammed them, leaving their home in ruins. Thanks to media mogul Tyler Perry, the couple’s home on Fontaine Avenue has been completely remodeled, allowing them to return to a safe, comfortable living space after enduring unimaginable conditions.

For nearly three years, the Williamses, who have been married for 34 years, lived in a home without heat, electricity, running water, or even interior walls. In 2021, a contractor named Steven Chastain allegedly took the couple’s money, gutted the house, and disappeared. The couple was left with a stripped-down structure, where they slept on air mattresses covered with thin sheets. Dorothy, 73, even suffered from blood clots after being exposed to freezing temperatures last winter, which led to a hospital visit.

Their situation was brought to light in a recent AJC article which quickly caught the attention of Tyler Perry, who decided to cover the cost of the home’s full remodel. Perry’s construction team worked tirelessly for three months, transforming the once-uninhabitable house into a beautiful, functional home.

Dorothy, who had lived in the home for over 40 years, expressed immense joy when she celebrated her birthday in the newly renovated space with her family. For the first time, she was able to use a dishwasher and enjoy a warm, safe environment. “It was heaven. I’m just so happy,” she said, relieved not to be facing another cold winter in their previous conditions.

George and Dorothy Williams are now able to dream of a future in their restored home, discussing plans such as fostering a child or even going skydiving. Their remodeled house has brought not only physical comfort but emotional peace, as their family can now visit and spend time together without the strain of unsafe living conditions.

The couple’s story resonated with many, and their plight led to support from various nonprofits, the mayor’s office, and a wider community. At a rally for presidential candidate Kamala Harris, Tyler Perry shared their story with thousands of people, speaking passionately about his commitment to seniors. “I have compassion for our seniors,” Perry said on stage.

For Dorothy and George, the weight of their difficult years has been lifted, and they can now focus on the future. Their grandchildren, who had been deeply concerned about them, celebrated the home’s transformation during Thanksgiving. Cameron Franklin, one of their grandchildren, remarked, “It’s really amazing; we were able to sit down and eat and joke and have fun. Sometimes God comes through and answers your prayers.”

Thanks to Tyler Perry’s generosity, the Williamses now have a home they can call their own, filled with love, warmth, and hope for the future.