Tenant Turner’s Open Doors giveaway began in 2018 as a way for property managers to help deserving renters who had fallen on hard times. The momentum has grown, and this year, over 200 property managers came forward to nominate people in their communities. In partnership with our friends at Rent Manager, we were able to double our impact this year, helping four families with $1,500 toward January rent. Two more families received a $250 Amazon gift card for holiday gifts. 

Thanks to all who participated. We humbly share the stories of the recipients below. Please note that names have been changed to protect privacy and submissions edited for brevity. 

$1,500 rent recipient

Nominated by: Blakely Property Management
"Pam" is a single mother of three children, ages 1-8. In June of this year, she was the victim of an attack by her ex and was run over by his truck. She suffered multiple broken bones and has only recently started walking again. Because of this, she's been unable to work since the accident and will be out of work until she fully recovers. Pam's mother stepped in to help with living costs, but as you can imagine, supporting two families is a difficult task. Through her time with us, she's never been late on rent and she takes really great care of our property. Receiving $1,500 towards rent would give her and her mother the opportunity to provide a great Christmas for her children and buy her a little bit more recovery time until she's able to return to work.

Property manager's response: "I was so happy to hear it when you called, I immediately called and told her over the phone. She's so incredibly grateful and expressed how helpful this is for her, especially with Christmas just around the corner. Good tenants don't come around every day, so it's wonderful to see one of mine get rewarded in such a meaningful way."

$1,500 rent recipient

Nominated by: Chamberlain Property Management
I'd like to nominate a group of siblings who are facing an impossible situation. The oldest is 19 and a full time college student. The second oldest is 17 and a full time high school student. They have a younger brother who is 10 who is currently in the hospital with Covid. They just lost their mother to Covid two weeks ago. She was a single mother, and the children do not know what to do about rent or a place to live after this month. I am helping them get assistance any way I can. They are outstanding members of our community.  I feel like if they don't get help, they will not be able to stay in school and have a brighter future. The $1500 will not cover their rent, but would get them closer to not becoming homeless.

Property manager's response: "Thank you all again for selecting these kids!"

$1,500 rent recipient

Nominated by: Professional Leasing Services 
The person I believe is the most worthy of receiving this $1500 is "Catherine." After being in an abusive marriage, she got the courage to leave with her 3 children. Her ex husband did everything in his power, legal and illegal, to make it impossible for her to survive. Yet, Catherine prevailed.  She works multiple jobs to make ends meet, cleans houses for one of our properties, runs errands for elderly and disabled, does hair out of her house, as well as homeschools her children. With her faith, determination and hard work she has overcome every obstacle thrown her way the past few years.  I truly believe that receiving this rental money will help Catherine and her children have a wonderful Christmas. 

Property manager's response: "This is amazing, what a wonderful Christmas gift!"

$1,500 rent recipient

Nominated by: College Grove Apartments
"Mike" is a single dad with a 6 year-old-son. He has lived here since 2017 and was never late with his rent. Due to Covid, he recently lost his job and he is struggling to pay his rent and keep food on the table. He rides his bike and puts his son on the  back in a bike chair because he recently lost his car.  This would allow him a little peace of mind since he only owes $1566.00 to keep a roof over his head and provide some sort of Christmas for his son. He is actively looking for employment, which I am sure he will find soon. Everyone needs a little help some time and this would truly be a blessing.

Property manager's response: "THANK YOU! I am so excited for him. I know that because of you and your team he will have some relief and WONDERFUL HOLIDAY with his son!"

$250 Amazon gift card recipient 

Nominated by: AMMT, LLC
This couple not only raises their own 6 children, but they are often left with children from other parents without prior notice. They don’t hesitate to ensure these little ones are taken care of until their parents return and grab them. Make no mistake, they do not operate a daycare. They don't offer babysitting or after-school childcare. I am aware of numerous instances where children will appear at their home to be welcomed with open arms, a warm place to sleep, and warm meals. I couldn't think of a family more deserving than this one. The impact this money would have is indescribable. These are people that go above and beyond for every single person around them, no matter color or creed, rich or poor; nothing shakes their resolve to simply remain the good people that they are.

$250 Amazon gift card recipient

Nominated by: Keez Property Management
Of over 500 tenants, there is only one that truly comes to mind over and over. I have a tenant who is 26 years old.  She adopted her 16-year-old cousin a little over a year ago who was in a difficult household.  This is the most selfless act I have ever seen. Not only is she a 26-year-old young woman who herself has medical issues, but she also works full time at a grocery store to pay her bills and take care of her newly adopted son. A 16-year-old growing boy eats A LOT. This is a woman who should be enjoying life, not having to worry about paying rent or putting food on the table at her age. She is one of the most caring, hardworking individuals I have ever met. This would give her so much relief, and I can only assume that she would be able to get a Christmas present or two for her son as well. 

Thank you so much for being advocates for your renters and helping these giveaways reach the people who need it most. You are the reason the property management community is so great! 

How can I participate? 

We’ll be holding another Open Doors giveaway at the end of 2022. Subscribe to the Tenant Turner newsletter below for early access and information about how to nominate someone in your community.