The Volunteering Page of Diane Burkhart

family and current housing
For Kayla and James Gates, purchasing a home of their own through Habitat for Humanity ECO means providing a safe, stable environment for their children and a place to call their very own. Prior to marrying, Kayla lived in an SMHA (Stark Metropolitan Housing Authority) scatter site property and James rented a home in Canton. Kayla is originally from East Canton, so they relocated to a private rental apartment in that part of town to be closer to family and independent from government housing. When their apartment building was damaged in a fire, the family was temporarily relocated to a duplex owned by the same company. The couple opted to stay in the duplex these past months paying higher rent but gaining some square footage. Structurally, the duplex is in average condition. Several issues with the furnace, roof, and plumbing have required repairs by the rental company. Although it has more room than their old apartment, the duplex has only two bedrooms and is overcrowded for the blended family of eight. Discouraged by their inability to secure a bank loan but hoping to finally have a place to call their own, the couple was unsure where to turn for safe, decent, affordable housing. Then one of Kayla’s co-workers introduced the couple to the Habitat program, and the Gates realized there was hope for their homeownership dreams. Kayla, James, and their daughters Autumn, Kristen, and Payton live together in the duplex and enjoy the special days when James’ other three children Rhylin, “little” James, and Avianna visit.Together the family enjoys going to the zoo, swimming, cookouts, and going to the park. James and Kayla are so proud of their crew and used adjectives like “creative,” “kind-hearted,” “loveable,” and “energetic” to describe them. The Gates know their future home will be a legacy that holds cherished memories for their children. “It [the new home] will open a door to new experiences for us. The kids will be able to do more and have a yard to play in,” said Kayla. “It’s something that will actually be theirs and they can call theirs.”

a bright future
Since starting Habitat’s program in August of 2019, James and Kayla have tag-teamed completing numerous hours of sweat equity at ReStore and on worksites. Preparing to be successful first-time homeowners, James and Kayla eagerly soaked up the information taught in H.O.M.E. (HomeOwner Maintenance Education) and F.S.E.(Financial Success Education) courses last fall. Despite their full schedule, Kayla and James are committed to also being involved parents and working hard at their respective jobs to provide financially for their family and future home. It’s a busy, but exciting time for the Gates family who look forward to finally having a home of their own. Although at one time it felt impossible, thanks to sponsors and volunteers their homeownership dream will
become reality. “It’s people like you who give people like us hope and we are so grateful,” expressed the couple.“That’s what community is!”