Family and Current Housing
Like many of our Partner Families, William and Gabrielle applied to the Habitat homeownership program hoping to secure safe, stable, and affordable housing for their family. This blended family of six has lived in a three bedroom government subsidized apartment in Wintersville, Ohio, for the past five years. Leaks in the upstairs bathroom has led to water damage on the first floor kitchen ceiling and mold in both the bathroom and kitchen. The foundation of the home is beginning to shift which has led to cracks in the walls and floors. There are also lots of problems with electrical outlets; several spark and short out each time they are used, while others leave a charred-like substance on the wall and plug when used. Gabrielle has also expressed concern with the home’s electric baseboard heating. Sometimes the baseboards become extremely hot to the touch and the children have been burned, so they often don’t use the heat in the kids' rooms. The couple suspects that tenants in neighboring units are using illegal narcotics as they often find used needles on the ground outside their apartment. Overall, the couple is looking for a fresh start and a place where they can safely raise their children. Hiking, cooking out, and going to the lake are some of the family’s favorite activities to do together. The couple describes their four children as curious and outdoorsy – what a blessing it will be for them to soon have a new home to explore and enjoy!
A Bright Future
Throughout their time in the partnership, William and Gabrielle have shown their commitment to the Habitat program by faithfully making the nearly three hour round trip from Wintersville to Canton to complete sweat equity several times a month. The couple has invested hours on worksites, at ReStore, and participated in House2Home education classes to prepare for the transition from renter to homeowner. On top of completing the Habitat program and raising their children, William also works hard to financially provide for his family at his place of employment. Soon, all the couple’s hard work will pay off and their family will have a safe, decent, affordable home of their own! When asked what they look forward to most about being homeowners, the couple’s response was simple but profound, “We look forward to living in a place that will be ours!”
