“My son was doing volunteer work through a program at school and was working on a house with Habitat,” said the single mother of two. “Then he told me about the program. We were struggling but I called and asked how to get into the program anyway.
“I always thought there was no way I could own my own home; it was just a dream,” she continued. “I didn’t think I made enough money.”
Enter into the story the winning lottery ticket.
“I had to have better credit (to get approved for the program) but I had a couple of maxed-out credit cards at the time because I had just lost my job,” Kelly said. “But I bought a lottery ticket. And thank the Lord, it was a $5,000 winner. So I got myself out of debt and that’s what got me into the program. Then I got a job at another nursing home. God had a plan all along.”
The home has been a source of pride as Kelly worked hard to raise her yearly income through the years. She has been employed by KTH Parts Industries in St. Paris for the past 12 years.
“It just feels good to have something I can call my own,” Kelly said. “I’m glad I accomplished something in life.”
At times, it wasn’t easy, though.
“You never know what things you will get into when you own a home,” said Kelly. “After a while, things start to fall apart.”
Kelly looks back to the humble beginnings of home ownership with fondness.
“It was a joy to get out and see my home being built, and me being able to help out,” she said. “I learned a lot of new things, a lot about upkeep, and that helped me out once I became a homeowner.”
The experience must have been positive because her daughter is now trying to follow in her mom’s footsteps and become a homeowner.
“I guess she learned the benefits while growing up here,” said Kelly.
What would Kelly say to someone who is considering taking the same path to home ownership?
“I would tell them all good things,” said Kelly. “This is an organization that helps people who are less fortunate, who can’t afford these expensive homes.
“God works in mysterious ways.”
Anyone interested in becoming a homeowner through our chapter or would like to volunteer to help or donate to this mission, call (937) 325-2514 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
(Rowe is the Church and Partner Family Relations Manager for the Fuller Center)
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