Establishing roots starts with a home.

In 2008, LaToya and her two children worked alongside volunteers to build their house, Lawrence Habitat house #70. While previously raising her kids in a small, cramped mobile home with only two bedrooms, LaToya had given each kid their own room while she slept on a pull-out couch. Rent had constantly increased, space was crowded, and they had to move far more often than she ever wanted. The opportunity to partner with Lawrence Habitat to build her home brought the stability and peace of mind she needed to catapult her dreams and successes to the next level. Being a Habitat homeowner for 17 years has impacted LaToya and her family in more ways than she can count. Having an affordable mortgage and a place to call their own gave them a sense of belonging and the space to be themselves. LaToya shares, “I credit homeownership for laying the foundation for my success – finishing school, building my own home, creating quality long-term relationships with my community and neighborhood, and ultimately showing my kids anything is possible.”
 

Now LaToya’s daughter, Ashlè is working towards owning her own house, Lawrence Habitat house #109. When recalling the experience of working on her mom’s home, Ashlè says, “I saw how having an affordable, stable house gave my mom a chance to step back from the stressors of being a single mom and the worries of being the sole provider. She worked so hard to provide for our family, and having a set, affordable mortgage allowed her to enjoy the new memories we made in the house together.” As Ashlè begins her journey toward homeownership, she is excited for the fresh start it will provide for her and her daughter, much like it did for her mom 17 years ago. She’s excited for Braelyn to have a yard to play in and her own room (which will be painted pink), and she looks forward to the stability, freedom and self-confidence that comes from knowing she can provide a safe, adequate space for her family.

With a smile, Ashlè shares, “Habitat’s like someone holding your hand through the whole process and then even beyond. Lawrence Habitat makes homeownership achievable.”