WASHINGTON — A grandma who took custody of three great-grandkids can finally breathe a sigh of relief after being threatened with an eviction in March.
Once viewers heard 68-year-old Geneva Weeks' story 10 days ago, they rallied together to donate more than $5,000 toward her rent.
Some sent as much as $1,000 directly to her landlord to ensure that she and her three grandchildren (all younger than 10-years-old) could stay in their home.
WUSA9 surprised her with the news Monday morning, and Geneva was overcome with emotion.
“Thank you Jesus! He answered my prayer. He answered my prayer...I’m so full with joy. I’m so full with joy. I thank God," said Geneva, tearing up.
The timing could not have been better.
Monday morning, Geneva received a summons to appear in Tenant Court about her rent.
Now, she doesn't have to worry.
Her landlord confirmed that the summons was likely already in the pipeline before the company received the donations, so the case should be dismissed.
Viewers from across the DMV donate to grandma
Geneva says police officers dropped by after the story aired to bring her grandchildren bicycles, food, clothes and diapers.
She says the night it aired, the Mayor's Office reached out to help her find a new home.
Some donors sent letters along with checks, with messages like "Dear Ms. Weeks, You are an inspiration. Best Wishes to you and your family."
“I’m just exhausted from the joy that people have done for me and these babies," said Geneva sighing.
Now, she says she can look forward to moving into a new three bedroom apartment that the Mayor's Office helped her find come summer.
“I can breathe better. I can enjoy my babies more now…. There are some good people in this world, and I thank God for them," said Geneva.
Donations are still rolling in, so the total amount raised will only continue to grow in the coming weeks.