Mariam's Story

Mariam’s journey began in Burundi, a country plagued by poverty, political unrest, and natural disasters. Seeking safety and stability, she moved her family to Tanzania, where life remained difficult with limited access to food, water, and opportunity. Eventually, Mariam made the courageous decision to move to the United States with her two children, Juma and Adija, in search of a better future.

They settled in Chattanooga, where Mariam found work and her children adjusted quickly to school. They loved the city’s mild climate and being close to extended family who had also left Africa. Still, rising rent made it hard to get ahead—until friends encouraged Mariam to apply for Habitat for Humanity. After being accepted, she worked hard to complete the program and is now proud to say she owns her home.

Today, Mariam and her children are happily settled in their new house, where they can celebrate Eid and Ramadan, cook favorite meals, and enjoy time together in peace and stability. Mariam is learning English, with help from Juma—now a junior at Chattanooga State studying business—and Adija, a high school sophomore.

Grateful for the support and the knowledge gained through Habitat’s homeowner classes, Mariam now dreams of one day helping her extended family back in Africa. Her message to the community is simple and heartfelt: “Thank you for building us a house.”