Jasmine's Story

Jasmine’s heart is deeply rooted in family and community. Raised in Chattanooga’s East Lake neighborhood, she grew up surrounded by brothers, cousins, and aunties—and that closeness continues today. She and her teenage son still gather weekly with family for game nights, birthdays, and to laugh about memories like running through fire hydrants on hot summer days. Now, Jasmine is proud to be living in her very own Habitat home, right in the neighborhood that shaped her.

Though she always loved her community, her old rental had serious issues—foundation problems, cramped space, and faulty wiring that made using the air fryer trip the circuit breaker. Inspired by her aunt, a longtime Habitat homeowner, and her mother, who paid off their family home early, Jasmine knew homeownership was her goal. “I can’t always pay for everything,” she says, “so I’m teaching my son the value of saving and working for what you want.”

Since moving in, Jasmine has embraced both the joys and challenges of homeownership. “If something breaks, I have to take care of it myself,” she says—but she feels ready. Watching her mom handle repairs growing up gave her confidence, and Habitat’s homeowner classes taught her the basics of plumbing, lawn care, and more. “There’s so much you don’t know until someone teaches you,” she adds.

One of her favorite parts of the Habitat experience has been building relationships—meeting new people, reconnecting with old friends, and finding community with fellow homeowners. “It’s been a long process, but worth it,” she says. “I’ve definitely grown. I’m a better person.”

Now settled into her home, Jasmine is grateful for the stability it brings. No more landlords, rising rent, or fear of eviction—just the freedom to live life on her own terms. “I can’t wait for the day I’m sitting on my porch without a care in the world,” she says. “I’ll plant flowers, relax, and do as I please in MY house.”