Meet the Mathis Family

FAMILY AND CURRENT HOUSING
Laquetta was raised in Canton, Ohio, by her great grandmother before moving to Washington, D.C. After graduating high school, she returned to Canton to start a family. Despite her unwavering dedication to providing a good life for her children, homeownership remained out of reach. Though she moved frequently in the past, she has now been renting the same home for 14 years—despite its many challenges, including air leaks around doors, unsecured windows, electrical issues, and an unstable entrance. During heavy rains, water seeps into her daughter’s room.

Owning a home has always been Laquetta’s dream, but circumstances made it difficult, especially as she cares for her eldest daughter, who has disabilities and will need lifelong support. She spent a full year in another homebuyer program, but despite her commitment, conventional bank approval remained out of reach. After attending a Habitat home dedication, she was inspired to apply, drawn to a program that prioritizes affordability and equips future homeowners with tools to succeed.

Since joining Habitat, Laquetta has fully embraced the journey. She has completed her homebuyer education classes, gaining valuable knowledge in financial wellness, home maintenance, personal development, and more. Always willing to go the extra mile, she logs additional sweat equity hours, openly shares her personal journey in class, and encourages fellow partner families along the way.

A BRIGHT FUTURE
Laquetta has been the office manager at Canton College Preparatory School for the past eight years, finding joy in welcoming students each day and being a friendly face at the school’s entrance. She is a proud mother of four adult children: Antoinette, who will be living with her; Isaiah, Bradley, and Sa’Laura, her “mini me,” who is currently serving in the United States Air Force.

Throughout her life, Laquetta has been surrounded by strong women, starting with the love, discipline, and wisdom of her great grandmother. That strength has continued through the family and friends who have supported her along the way. She now hopes to pass on that legacy to her daughters and her first grandchild—a baby boy born last year. Her family cherishes their time together, reflecting on life’s blessings and the love they share through faith and one another. Now, Laquetta is ready for the next chapter: owning a home where family can gather, celebrate, and continue the legacy of resilience and gratitude. It’s her time now!

6.25

hours pledged

8

volunteers
VOLUNTEER WITH ME

Location / Venue

Habitat for Humanity East Central Ohio logo
In Support of Habitat for Humanity East Central Ohio
As a grassroots Christian housing ministry serving Stark, Carroll, Tuscarawas, Harrison, and Jefferson Counties, Habitat for Humanity East Central Ohio is driven by the vision that everyone needs a decent place to live. People partner with Habitat for Humanity to build or improve a place they can call home. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage. Through financial support, volunteering, or adding a voice to support affordable housing, everyone can help families achieve the strength, stability, and self-reliance they need to build better lives for themselves. To learn more, visit habitateco.org.