Vikings lineman gives family ‘a dream come true’
A formerly homeless family in St. Paul is living a dream come true thanks to Minnesota Vikings offensive lineman Mike Remmers and his wife, Kelly.
The family includes Ladarius, Katia and their three kids, ages 3, 2 and 4 months. They moved to Minnesota from Tennessee a year ago after a friend insisted they’d have a place to live when they arrived. But their friend went back on his word.
“When that plan fell through, it was the worst day of our lives,” Katia said.
They’d been homeless ever since, living in shelters, hotels, and their car. Katia was pregnant most of the time, while Ladarius struggled to find work.
“Prayers and family – that’s all we had,” Katia said.
In December, the family was included on a list of Salvation Army families that would be receiving Christmas presents from members of the Minnesota Vikings offensive line – an effort organized by Vikings tackle Aviante Collins and his fiancée, Jordan.
By then, Ladarius had found a job. But the family was still homeless, saving every penny for a down payment on an apartment.
When Mike and Kelly Remmers learned about the family’s situation, they offered an incredible Christmas present: they paid the down payment.
Ladarius, Katia and their children moved into their new home last week. The family also received free beds, tables, furniture, and household items through The Salvation Army’s connection with a nonprofit that provides free used furniture.
“I want to cry right now,” Ladarius said, while moving furniture into the apartment.
“This is a dream come true,” Katia added. “It’s like it’s not even happening. I need to be pinched.”
Mike and Kelly Remmers were thrilled to help.
“It is so wonderful to see this family get into a home,” Kelly said. “It truly warms our hearts.”
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