South Philadelphia man gets new roof after community rallies to repair collapsing home

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- A South Philadelphia homeowner whose roof was caving in just months ago is now living under a fully repaired structure after contractors and community members stepped in to help.

Repairs are complete for 75-year-old Oliver Parker, whose home had become nearly unlivable due to severe leaks.

In April, contractor Joey Lawless of JRL Roofing began making the repairs at no cost after learning about Parker's situation.

Parker, who relies on Social Security, had no way to pay for the extensive work and faced the possibility of being forced out of his home.

Once Lawless began the project, other workers joined in, donating both time and materials to move the repairs forward.

The effort resulted in a brand-new roof for Parker, along with repairs to walls in several rooms where mold had developed.