Sandy's Story

​It's been two years since we moved into our home. Having a place where my kids can grow up and build memories was my biggest dream, and as a single mother of 4, I would not have done it without the help of Habitat for Humanity. In this past year, I was having difficulties economically and Habitat for Humanity helped me during this process. They made a payment plan that was affordable and manageable for me. As time goes by, the kids and I are building new memories and making this house our home. I have painted and redecorated the upstairs and have plans to build a master bedroom downstairs. Being able to do projects with my kids and seeing their smile is my biggest reminder in to ever be grateful for this amazing blessing Habitat for Humanity provided for us!"

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Jen's Story

Building our own home is not something I ever imagined being a reality for my family. I was a single mom, living in the same apartment for 9 years, and my kids had been dreaming of a home with a yard. After applying and having an interview, two weeks later we received the call that left my kids and me in pure shock, excitement, joy and a little disbelief. We were selected to receive a home built by Habitat for Humanity!

Our first year in the house has been filled with peace, gratitude, and pure joy. Some days I still catch myself with feelings of awe as I realize the roof over our heads is our future; a safe, secure place to call home. And because of the one-on-one experience my son had with each skilled volunteer, he made the decision to enroll in college to learn carpentry skills. He now has a plan for his future. I am forever grateful for the blessings God has provided for my family through Habitat for Humanity and I look forward to the ways I can continue to give back!"

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Millard & Mary Ann's Story

Sone of the perks of owning a Habitat for Humanity House are:
1. We had a no interest loan. Our payments went directly to our principal balance and escrow. The escrow fund covered our property taxes each year. Not having to save extra money for taxes was a big plus and made budgeting a lot easier.
2. Our house was a new build after the 1997 flood. Helping with the planning and layout was a fun and interesting learning experience. We helped build the house, from erecting the walls to the final baseboards being stained. We learned the layout of all our water lines, electrical circuits, and support walls. (This knowledge has been priceless in the last 27 years!)
3. Once our house was finished, we helped another local family with their habitat house. Using the experiences we gained from building ours, we could offer insights and design ideas that we wouldn't have thought of before.
4. Being able to create a unique space without worrying about a landlord or HOA rules has been the best. Our children enjoyed having their own rooms and being able to decorate however they wanted.

Now the children are grown and gone, but our home is a hub of family activity. The extra bedrooms are now an office, art, and music studio. Outside in the yard we have created a magical garden getaway that we never want to leave.

Thank you to Red River Valley Habitat for Humanity for giving us a dream come true!