When Hurricane María struck in 2017, Esther’s roof collapsed again. With her mother depending on her and her own health concerns to manage, she gathered whatever zinc sheets she could find and covered the roof herself to keep the home livable.

Years later, Hurricane Fiona brought water back into the house and further weakened the structure. Esther created a temporary system of tarps secured with ratchet straps, rebuilding or adjusting it every few months to keep the rain out.

Despite the difficulty, she never stopped trying to protect her home and her mother. Working at a local hardware store gave her access to basic materials, which she used for temporary repairs. By the time PRoTechos assessed the home, the roof had severely damaged wood, active leaks, and compromised structural components.

Through a collaboration between PRoTechos and Techos Pa’ Mi Gente, the home received the materials, electrical work, skilled labor, and structural reconstruction it needed. The project included demolition of the damaged roof, repairs to moisture-affected walls, reconstruction of key structural elements, replacement of rafters and roof panels, and installation of a durable galvalume roof.

Construction took place from May 6 through July 15. During the work, Esther remained closely involved while caring for the property and her dog, and PRoTechos apprentices gained hands-on experience alongside instructors.

Today, Esther and her mother finally have a safe, dry, and stable home. There are no more tarps to rebuild, no more active leaks, and no more uncertainty every time it rains.

After decades of temporary fixes, they can finally feel secure in the home their family has known for generations.