Imagine living in a cramped apartment with leaking pipes and mold-ridden walls, endangering the health of your loved ones. This was the reality for one of our Habitat families, a resilient household of four that endured these harsh conditions for far too long. Despite facing annual rent hikes of 10-15% over the past five years, they remained determined to give their children a safe and healthy environment.

In their pursuit of stability, this family discovered Habitat for Humanity of Orange County's website. The orientation session lit a spark of hope within them, motivating them to save diligently for a down payment. Their prayers were answered when they became proud Habitat homeowners, solidifying a future of safety, security and opportunity for their family.

“Before owning our Habitat home, constant rent increases forced us to move frequently as we chased after affordable rent. We never felt like we could save enough to get ahead. A Habitat home gives us peace of mind knowing we will never have to move again. Thank you for helping us achieve a dream we never thought possible!”

As a single mother, I was able to find low-income housing first a one bed room apartment, then as my son grew a two-bedroom apartment for him to have his privacy. My son was diagnosed with Asperges (high functioning Autism) and reliant on my support. I do not make enough to qualify to purchase a home, especially a three-bed room home to be able to provide my children and I. Owning a home will make us proud to call a place not just a house but create out “home.” This will improve our sense of family and togetherness by allowing us to finally call a place “our own” and be able to decorate our forever home.