Johnson Family Build

Family and Current Housing   

Like many of our Partner Families, Demetrius and Phile'Sha applied to the Habitat homeownership program hoping to secure safe, stable, and affordable housing for their family.  This blended family of five is currently living in Phile'Sha's mother's two bedroom home.  Although having a place to stay has been a blessing for the family, Demetrius and Phile'Sha recognize that they are in need of a larger home of their own to raise their three girls.  The couple has never owned before, instead having lived in private rentals or with friends.  Because of their conservative income and monthly debt obligations, the couple feared they would not qualify for a traditional mortgage.  When a friend recommended they partner with Habitat, the couple applied and were accepted into the homeownership program in the fall of 2016.  Demetrius and Phile'Sha are excited to provide their daughters, Nyla, Nariah, and Kenya, with a place they can call home for years to come.  The couple describes their girls as curious and playful – 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, Demetrius and Phile'Sha have invested numerous hours of sweat equity on worksites, at ReStore, and in House2Home education classes.  Along with completing Habitat requirements and raising their children,both Demetrius and Phile'Sha work hard to financially provide for their family.  Together, the couple started their own cleaning business and Demetrius also works a factory job as a technician.  Soon, all their 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 responded, "We are looking forward to being able to grow together into a better family in a home that is our own!"