Latonya’s journey to homeownership

July 28, 2022

By Lakeisha Minor, Durham Habitat Director of Homeowner Services

Meet Latonya. She is a single mom of three, two girls aged 12 and 8, and a 13-year-old son. She works as a Supply Technician in the healthcare field. She and her children have lived in East Durham for many years, and she dreamt of one day owning a home in her own community.

In pursuit of her dream, Latonya reached out to us to learn how she could purchase a Habitat home. We sat down and discussed the homeownership process, from qualification to sweat equity to our education programs. I explained the level of commitment that is required. But that didn’t faze her. She was determined to achieve her dream of buying a forever home for her and her children.

Latonya understood that Durham Habitat doesn’t just build homes, we strive to create confident homeowners. When a partner family is accepted into our homeownership program they receive hands-on training on financial literacy, home maintenance workshops, home insurance, and estate planning. That way, they are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive as homeowners today, and the tools to keep the house in their family for future generations.

Latonya embraced the homeowner education process. She enjoyed earning her sweat equity hours volunteering at the Women’s Rescue Mission with her children, teaching them to serve and strengthen their community. I was impressed with her commitment to providing her children with a stable home. She wanted to give them a backyard to safely play in. And she has!

Your Turn

With your support, more families like Latonya’s can have the opportunity to become homeowners. Donate today and provide Durham families brighter futures through the transformative power of homeownership.