LISTEN TO THE ZOOM RECORDING HERE
Please note that you'll need to allow the recording about 30-60 seconds to be ready to play. The program begins about 15 minutes in so you'll want to fast forward.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU FOR HOUSING TO BE AFFORDABLE?
-It's mental, emotional, and physical relief for me
-Peace of mind
-Relief
-It's having the tools to be able to help other people and make a difference
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CHALLENGES YOU'VE FACED IN SECURING HOUSING THAT WORKS FOR YOUR BUDGET?
-Housing costs are more than 50% of what I make, added to that I have to pay utilities
-The challenges make you think outside the box and consider all options
WHERE DO YOU LIVE NOW, AND HOW WELL IS IT WORKING FOR YOU?
-I found a home through the Home Again Foundation
-I got my home through Habitat for Humanity and went through a two-year process since the moment I submitted my application.
WHAT MISCONCEPTIONS DO YOU THINK PEOPLE HAVE ABOUT AFFORDABLE HOUSING OPTIONS AND THE PEOPLE WHO LIVE IN THEM?
-Shame, some people associate affordable housing with shame
-Some people think affordable housing is exclusively for disadvantaged people
-Some people fear that the nearby construction of affordable housing units is going to decrease the value of their property
WHAT DO YOU WISH MORE PEOPLE UNDERSTOOD ABOUT AFFORDABLE HOUSING?
-Be patient, Stay faithful, Don't loose heart, Keep going
WHAT'S ONE DREAM YOU HAVE FOR YOURSELF AND YOUR FAMILY?
-I dream with owning my own home, having the title and deed
-I dream with being able to make a difference in somebody's life now that I don't have to worry about not having a place of my own