Mary's Story

Mary always believed she’d one day become a homeowner—it was a dream close to her heart and one she prayed for often. Growing up in Eastdale, her parents owned their home, and she fondly remembers her dad’s pride as a first-time homeowner. That house was the backdrop of her childhood: riding bikes, playing ball with her siblings, and celebrating holidays—especially Christmas, her favorite.

Today, Mary continues that spirit of togetherness with her own family through “Soul Food Sundays,” where she cooks favorites like meatloaf, mac and cheese, and greens for her daughters and grandchildren. But until now, her living situation was far from ideal. Her rent had increased more than 35% since 2019, forcing her to work extra hours just to make ends meet, all while dealing with mold and poor maintenance in her apartment.

Encouraged by her friend and coworker Alice—a Habitat homeowner herself—Mary applied to the program and was thrilled to be accepted. Now, they’ll be neighbors, and Mary is grateful for the friendships she’s formed through Habitat. She’s learned valuable lessons in home maintenance and budgeting through homeowner classes and now encourages others to apply: “It’s a wonderful program, especially the financial part.”

Now moved in, Mary looks forward to building equity, enjoying privacy, and finding peace in her own space. Her dream is simple but meaningful—slow Saturday mornings, coffee on the porch, and a home where she can retire, relax, and keep the soul food coming.