INDIANAPOLIS — At 101 years old, Ernestine Pinner is one of Indiana's few centenarians.
She's lived in her home on the near north side of Indianapolis in the historic Martindale–Brightwood neighborhood for 65 years.
Her daughter, Karen Turner, said Pinner refuses to move out even though she can no longer afford the home repairs and upkeep.
"I just do what I can to make her comfortable," Turner said.
But after storms damaged the aging house, Turner says she found Home Repairs for Good in 2021.
"I was at wits end after I contacted the insurance company and was unable to get any help. Then, they were able to come in and help out," Turner said.
The nonprofit does free home repairs as long as applicants meet the requirements: low-income senior home owners living in Marion County.
"Ernestine is a pillar in this community," said Rachel Nelson, executive director of Home Repairs for Good. "What we're doing is something that is abling someone to stay in their home that they love and they own."
Volunteers show up and complete projects like roof repairs, yardwork, even fixing things inside the home.
Last year, the organization served 440 homeowners. Nelson said crews have been out to Pinner's house at least eight times.
Turner said this kind of outreach for the elderly is a blessing.
"I'm just overjoyed because everyone every now and then needs help," Turner said.
This weekend is the fourth annual Fall Fest where volunteers will clean up Pinner's backyard, clear the gutters and seal the windows.
These days, she's a woman of few words, but Pinner said she's grateful.
"It makes me feel good because of them," Pinner said.
Click here if you'd like to become a volunteer or make a donation to help with home repairs.