Stark County Sheriff's Office | Kumar Rodriguez Family Build

Family and Current Housing 

Kimberlie Kumar Rodriguez is a Canton native and a hardworking parent raising three boys: John (11), Jeremy (9), and Jermaine (7). She has worked as a medical assistant at Kidney Hypertension Consultants for the past couple of years, balancing long days at work with the steady responsibilities of caring for her family.

For the last several years, Kimberlie and her children have lived in public housing. What was meant to be a stable option has come with real limitations, including limited space, limited availability, and an ongoing list of concerns that haven’t been fully resolved. All three boys share one bedroom because there are no larger units available. The home has also needed repairs, and ongoing maintenance issues have made it harder for the family to feel comfortable and settled. Parts of the home show visible wear and tear, adding to the sense that this space can’t fully offer the stability Kimberlie wants for her children.

Safety has also been a concern. Safety concerns in the area have also added stress, leaving Kimberlie wanting a place where her children can feel more secure. It’s hard to focus on homework, rest, and childhood when peace of mind is never guaranteed.

Still, her boys bring energy and heart to their home. They love being outside, riding bikes, watching movies, and spending time together. John is into sports, video games, and dirt bikes, and he loves adventure. Jeremy enjoys soccer and video games, and he’s always eager for the next thing to explore. Jermaine is a Spider-Man fan through and through, happiest on his bike or alongside his brothers.

A Bright Future 

Kimberlie learned about Habitat for Humanity East Central Ohio through a friend at work, and she held onto that hope because she’s ready for a different path. She has pursued the partnership before and has continued taking steps forward, including completing twelve weeks of homebuyer education.

Through Habitat’s affordable homeownership program, Kimberlie is working toward more than a new set of keys. She’s working toward a home where her children can have room to grow, where repairs aren’t a constant strain, and where safety and stability are givens.

Kimberlie is ready to build alongside Habitat and step into what’s next for her family.