Creating Self-reliance, Stability through Affordable Homeownership
“I changed. I transformed from a dependent person not sure where I was headed next to a stronger more self-reliant woman.” – Mary Ann R.
Two decades ago, Mary Ann R. lived in a domestic violence shelter with her young daughter seeking a better direction for their lives. Her dream was simple: a safe, healthy home for herself and her child, the chance to nurture and educate her daughter, and the opportunity to take control of her life.
Twenty years later, this Habitat homeowner enjoys the fruits of that course correction. Mary Ann has retired from her position with Hillsborough County Road Maintenance and spends her time riding her bike, walking her dog, and staying involved in the community. Most of all, she loves babysitting her two sweet granddaughters who live nearby with her daughter – who she says “has grown into a beautiful young woman with her own family – and her son-in-law.
“I changed. I transformed from a dependent person not sure where I was headed next to a stronger more self-reliant woman,” said Mary Ann. She says having an affordable mortgage for a secure home of her own was the foundation for getting her life on track.
“Anyone who is thinking about joining with Habitat For Humanity will be very glad they did. The program is real. It is a chance to take control of your life and have a good life. It takes a lot of sweat equity hours and hard work, but the end result is so sweet. Thank you Habitat. You helped make me a better person.”
Celebrate the season by supporting a cause you believe in with a gift that has lasting impact.
Your holiday gift helps keep Habitat Hillsborough building so more local parents like Mary Ann can know the transformational impact and security of an affordable home.
We can’t do it alone. We need your help.
Together, we build homes, not houses.
