10 years ago, Shellyann moved to the U.S. with two suitcases and $20. Now, with the help of donors and volunteers who made her family’s Habitat journey possible, she and husband Scott have accomplished a dream that had always felt out of reach – owning a home where they can raise their children.
“The kids used to get Bs and Cs in school, but since we moved into our Habitat home they are getting As and Bs. They have a quiet place to do homework or read. They have room to play. They are happier, more relaxed, they feel so much more comfortable here. The difference is incredible.”
Before they moved into their Habitat CFC home, Shellyann, Scott, and their blended family of 6 children shared just three bedrooms and shared a single bathroom with other tenants in the house. One day, Shellyann looked out the window and saw a house being built across the street with a Habitat for Humanity sign in front. She investigated to see if her family would qualify for Habitat CFC’s homeownership program and decided to apply. Getting the call that they had been accepted was a dream come true.
“Buying a house with Habitat CFC was a wonderful experience. We met so many incredible and kind people, from the volunteers on site, to the staff, to the donors and supporters. I want to ask that they keep giving, keep volunteering, and keep building. You made such a big impact in our lives. I just want more families to have the same opportunity that we were given.”
Shellyann, Scott, and the two oldest girls worked together to complete 500 hours of sweat equity and helped build the house that they now call home. Shellyann says that she is deeply grateful for their home.
“Sometimes I just sit here in awe. I count every window, every door, and think about all the people who helped us build our dream. We have been so blessed. My husband and I talk about how grateful we are every day.”
