Tyler Perry steps in after FOX Chicago report to help 81-year-old woman forced from home

FOX Chicago's Tia Ewing gets emotional after Tyler Perry steps in to help 81-year-old homeowner

After a FOX Chicago report highlighted an 81-year-old woman's struggle with severe home damage and financial hardship, Tyler Perry pledged to pay off her lien and help restore her home.

CHICAGO - Tyler Perry is stepping in to help an 81-year-old homeowner after a FOX Chicago story about losing the use of her home following a burst pipe gained widespread attention.

What we know:

Perry's public relations team reached out to FOX Chicago's Tia Ewing after seeing the story and confirmed he would help Brenda Durham. Ewing reported Perry plans to pay off a lien on the home and is also expected to help pay for repairs to restore the property.

Durham's home was heavily damaged after a pipe burst, leaving it without running water. Restoration contractors had challenged the insurance company's denial on her behalf, but the dispute remained unresolved.

Perry found the story after people tagged him in social media posts and noted he has a history of quietly helping people in need.

Markham woman says insurance denied claim, leaving her displaced and facing nearly $18K lien

At 81 years old, Brenda Daurham says she never imagined she would be fighting to return to the home she spent decades protecting, over 30 years.

What's next:

At the time of the interview, Durham had not yet learned about Perry's offer because she was at a doctor's appointment. Her daughter had been notified, and Ewing said she hoped to personally share the news with Durham soon.