“I’m ready to sweat for the keys.”

There are some stories that remind you that home is never just about four walls. It’s about finally being able to exhale.

Before we share Ghizelle’s story in her own words, we want to pause on what it represents.

Not just resilience in the face of hardship, but what it looks like to keep building anyway, even when stability has never been guaranteed.

Her story is one of survival, yes. But even more, it’s one of determination to create something better for her children.

“I am writing to share my story and my deep desire to build a safe, stable home for my family through your program. At 15, I became homeless after years of childhood trauma, and I've spent much of my life overcoming the effects of abuse, instability, and survival mode. When I found out I was high-risk pregnant with twins, I knew I had to find a way out. Not just for me, but most importantly for the twins I was carrying.

Today, I'm proud to say I've rebuilt my life with resilience and purpose. I work as a case manager, helping others navigate challenges like the ones I've faced, and I'm currently pursuing my LADAC to further serve my community. But even as I support others, my family lives in a small, poorly insulated apartment plagued by black mold…conditions that threaten my children's health and our peace of mind.

Owning a home through Habitat for Humanity wouldn't just be a roof over our heads. It would be proof that healing is possible. It would mean safety, dignity, and a foundation where my children can grow up healthy and hopeful. I'm ready to sweat for the keys—volunteering, partnering, and doing everything asked of me. I believe in this program because I believe in helping others and building new beginnings, one brick at a time.”

Thank you for considering the twins and me.