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HEBER CITY — A single mother of two young children has a safe place to live thanks to the efforts of the Heber City Police Department and the community.
A Heber City police officer received an anonymous plea for help in August. The caller was concerned about the welfare of children in the home at 190 W. Center.
"There was a humanitarian need that they felt really strongly about trying to help people with," Heber City Police Lt. Jason Bradley said.
Soon after, a few police officers and their families were at the home, lending a helping hand. Several officers were consumed with the project for a couple of weeks at a time on their off-duty time.
"I know for the officers, it was exciting to do something they don't normally get to do, something more friendly, if you will," Bradley said. "So I think it was a unique thing for them."
Soon, contractors, churches, businesses and neighbors also were pitching in.
"There was just a ton of people, tons of entities coming forward, and it ended up being a great humanitarian effort," Bradley said.
Over a span of more than three months, volunteers rebuilt rotting floors, walls and cabinets.
"I just have never seen it on this scale as far as police or other people working together like this before," Bradley said. "It was really cool."
The single mother was grateful but embarrassed, and declined to comment for this story. Volunteers said that was just fine, as long as one family can enjoy a better and safer home.
"One person commented that they had renewed their faith in humanity after they saw what happened," Bradley said, "because so many people had come forward and donated and done something to help this family."