Zandaria

“It wasn’t livable. No one should be staying there.” 

This is what single mom, Zandaria, had to say about the place where she was raising her four children.  

“Zandaria’s old rental home”

The home had holes in the roof, which leaked every time it rained. There was no insulation or central heat and air, so when it got cold the family barricaded the doors and windows with blankets and huddled together to stay warm.  

Insects and pests were constantly getting into their home, which scared the kids. The family had to dump water into the toilets just so they would flush. The house was so small that the two youngest, a 3-year-old boy and a 2-year-old girl, didn’t have a bedroom.  

And while the rent was cheap, the utility bills were astronomical. 

Zandaria had wanted to relocate for a long time but was having a hard time doing so. Her income wasn’t enough to afford a new home, but it was high enough that she didn’t qualify for other relief programs. That’s when she turned to Habitat. 

Zandaria received the call that she had been approved for a home while at a funeral. It turned this sad moment into a joyful one. 

“I was probably the happiest person in the church at that point,” Zandaria laughed. 

Her family is so excited that they regularly drive by the home site and take pictures as each new phase is reached. 

“Zandaria and her four kids on the lot of their new home”

“We can create a book or collage of each step,” Zandaria explained. 

Zandaria said she has learned a lot while doing her sweat-equity hours at Habitat, especially related to financial stability.  She said the classes have sparked a new interest in financial planning. 

Zandaria also loves the bond she’s made with the Habitat community. She’s built a strong connection to everyone involved with the organization: employees, homeowners, and future homeowners alike.  

Zandaria said her experience at Habitat has left a powerful impact on her. It has taught her how important it is to serve the community, and she has declared that she will return to volunteer at least once a month.  

“This has taught me to give back,” Zandaria said. 

Zandaria is most excited about simply owning her own house. She’s excited not to be restricted by landlords, and her kids are ecstatic about having more space to call their own. 

“It’s mine and my kids; we’re going to enjoy it!” Zandaria “They’re going to grow up there and make memories.”