Maya recommended that Evelyn and I obtain separate financial advice before arranging any assistance.

A trusted local nonprofit evaluated my housing needs and identified a senior homeowner repair program that might cover part of the roof.

I qualified for some help, though not enough to cover everything.

Evelyn offered to pay the remainder as a gift, with a written record confirming that it gave her no ownership interest in the property.

I refused twice before accepting.

The paperwork was plain and brief.