Meet Emily, a loving mother, and her two wonderful children, Linden and Belle.

Navigating the rental market has been a relentless struggle for them in recent years. The dilemma of finding a place that is both safe and affordable seemed almost impossible. It was always one or the other - safety at the cost of their budget or affordability in an uncomfortable neighbourhood. At present, they find themselves residing in an area that doesn’t quite feel like home.

Emily and her kids have yearned for a place where they could truly feel safe and where the children could play freely with their newfound friends in the community.

"How has Habitat made homeownership possible?" you might wonder. Emily would tell you it was like destiny unfolding. They had outgrown their small two-bedroom unit and had been diligently searching for rental options. The prospects were disheartening, and she even contemplated sleeping in the living room so her children could have their own rooms.

Then, one day, her daughter's school sent an email announcing Habitat’s search for homeownership partners. She took it as a sign and promptly submitted her application. It was a stroke of luck when she was selected for this life-changing partnership.

"The Habitat team has been my unwavering support system, answering questions and providing assistance every step of the way."

The family is now eagerly looking forward to moving into their new home, a place where they will create lifelong memories. For them, this opportunity means more than just a house; it signifies safety, cherished memories, and the freedom to grow together as a family. It is an opportunity to build strong, lasting relationships within a community of like-minded people.

Emily sums it up beautifully: "I’ll be forever grateful.” Grateful for Habitat for Humanity's mission and the chance to provide a secure and loving environment for her children. Grateful for the opportunity to make their lifelong dream of homeownership a reality.

Emily is now working on her 500 volunteer hours and is eager to move-in. They are excited about the safety and warmth of their new house, the friendships they will forge in their new community, and the memories they will create together. This is the essence of what Habitat for Humanity is all about - transforming lives through safe, affordable housing and building a sense of community that lasts a lifetime.

A message from Emily

Thank you to all who support Habitat for Humanity for being a part of this incredible journey with us. Your support makes stories like Emily's possible. Together, we can continue to build brighter futures and stronger communities for families in need.

If you’d like to join us in making a difference, consider volunteering or donating to Habitat. Together, we can build a world where everyone has a decent place to call home.