Rebecca’s Journey: A Story of Gratitude and Transformation

Rebecca has lived in her home for 21 years, but owning a house was something she never thought would be possible. Before moving in, she lived in a rental house on Section 8, where the rent was constantly rising, especially after all of her children had moved out. When the rent became unaffordable, she found herself looking for a solution.
In a time when the housing market crashed, and many were losing their homes, Rebecca was blessed to purchase her own. However, it wasn’t easy. Her working hours were cut, and she found herself struggling financially. Despite this, Rebecca was determined not to lose the home she had worked so hard to secure. “Home means not struggling and not being homeless,” she reflects. “I feel sorry for people who are homeless. I have a friend living in her car because she couldn’t pay rent. Situations like that remind me how blessed I am to have a roof over my head.”


Although she was overjoyed to become a homeowner, Rebecca didn’t feel prepared for the responsibilities that came with it. Decades later and now on a fixed income, the cost of major home repairs was overwhelming. Over time, Rebecca also developed medical issues that made getting around and navigating her home more challenging. Her children, who have always been her support system, helped by upgrading her bathroom to include an accessible walk-in shower, but there were still so many other things that needed attention.
While in the hospital, Rebecca learned about Habitat’s Senior Home Repair Program. She applied for help, and after a wait of almost a year and a half—due to the organization’s limited resources and reliance on community donations—she finally received the support she desperately needed.


The repairs made by Habitat DeKalb have had a profound impact on Rebecca’s daily life. The plumbing issues that plagued her home have been fixed, and critical safety features have been installed, such as grab bars and a ramp to make her home more accessible. “What I look forward to the most is being able to get in and out of my house safely,” says Rebecca. “And having things in the house that were broken working again. It’s such a relief.”

To the volunteers and donors who made these repairs possible, Rebecca is beyond grateful: “Thank you, thank you, thank you!” she exclaimed. “I appreciate it so much. My home is in better shape now, thanks to Habitat!”

Rebecca’s story is a testament to the power of community and the life-changing impact that Habitat for Humanity DeKalb has on the lives of homeowners. Her home is now safer, more accessible, and, most importantly, a place where she can continue living with dignity and peace of mind.
There are many more homeowners like Rebecca who need critical home repairs to age safely in place. Your generosity can help make that possible. Donate or sponsor a home repair to give more seniors the security and stability of a safe home.


