COLUMBUS, Ohio — One year ago, around 100 residents were forced out of their homes at the Latitude Five25 apartment complex in east Columbus due to burst pipes and electrical issues.
The city of Columbus deemed the buildings unsafe and said the apartments were without potable water, heat and a working fire suppression system.
Anne Barrett was one of the residents who was forced out of her home last Christmas. She said her husband called her that morning and was worried.
“He said the elevators weren’t working and I said let me call 911,” said Barrett.
Barrett said her apartment was also without heat. That morning, firefighters showed up to the building to help people get out. She said she is thankful for all the help she received that day and the weeks after.
“I just want to thank god for everybody that helped out to support us and making everything better for us,” said Barrett.
Now, Barrett is all moved into a brand-new apartment building.
“God blessed me to get housed on my birthday which was January 18. I got my keys that day. I feel better and safe now,” she said.
Barrett said she would consider moving back into the apartment building if some things changed.
“I miss it because I had a nice view. If they were really to fix it up and put a washer and dryer in the apartments, make the kitchen a little bigger then I would move back there,” she said.
Barrett said she does not like to think about what she went through last year. She is thankful to have moved forward and will enjoy her Christmas this year.
“God is keeping me, and keeping me around for many reasons. To help and bless many people, that is my life desire to help others as needed,” said Barrett.