“I’m not exactly comfortable with our living situation, but I make it work because it’s a roof over our heads” said Brianna when asked about their current housing. “For me, it’s about stability. My kids can’t be themselves in our current home, and I don’t even feel safe having them play outside.” Brianna and her sons live in a trailer that’s big enough when it comes to space, but far from their dream home. With increasing rent and ongoing maintenance issues, it’s no wonder they are looking to make the move to a safer, permanent home.

Brianna chose this word to describe her current situation: “Stuck. I don’t feel like I or my kids can grow in this place. We’re limited by the house and neighborhood.”

Brianna had watched a friend complete Habitat’s Homeownership Program several years ago, and after some recent setbacks, decided it was time she applied, herself. Brianna is a self-employed beautician and was talking to some clients about applying when she ran into Amanda, Habitat’s office manager. “She told me more about the program,” said Brianna, “And she encouraged me to just get in there and do it.”

That was the push Brianna needed to get her application together and schedule the appointment. After some follow-up questions and a home visit, she got the call: she was accepted! “My entire family was there when I got the news. I was so excited at first, and then in the middle of it I started crying! I was just thankful, I was just very thankful that I actually made it,” Brianna added.