Prior to her new home, Ciera and her two children ages 10 and 12, lived in income based
housing. Although she has been grateful for the opportunity, the small apartment is not in good
condition. There are holes throughout the small apartment which allow for insects to come in. There is
also mold present in the apartment. She reports that no matter how much you clean it never leaves and
the apartment complex has not resolved the issue. Ciera and her children have struggled to cope with
their current living situation.
Ciera learned about Habitat Cabarrus’ Home ownership program from two homeowners, Jackie
and her Aunt Zula. They both encouraged her to apply for the program many times. When asked about
her time in the program she stated, “It was one of the best life changing opportunities I have ever
experienced. One of my goals for my life was to become a homeowner but I didn’t have any clear
direction as to how I would be able to do so until I ran across the homeowners in the program and that
is when I finally found the vision of possibly being a homeowner.”
Ciera reports that she has gained so much from the process because she has learned so much.
The most challenging part about being in the program for her has been trying to find balance in her life
between the program, her job and children. She said as she began to adjust, it became a thrill for her
because of how many things she was able to learn and experience firsthand. She enjoys learning new
skills on the construction site. “My first time, I was so nervous and had no clue of what to do,” she said.
With guidance from the Site Supervisor she learned different techniques and how to use the tools in the
right way. What she loves the most about being on the site is working with the volunteers, other
homeowners and the bonds they’ve built.
When asked about Financial Peace University, she stated that it is very helpful. “I learned a lot
and it is definitely a good guide to follow. It helps and broke down so much information that you
wouldn’t think it would work but It does when you take time to actually do it.”
Ciera says that her and her children are completely ready to for the change. They can finally be
in a safe environment and they get to personalize their own space the way they’d like. “I’m excited
because all my hard work has finally turned into blessings that I didn’t expect to receive so soon,” she
says.
It means so much to Ciera to be able to see her dream of Home ownership come to fruition. She
reports that she is so thankful for the opportunity and shares it with all of her friends. She says the
program has changed her life as she’s become more disciplined and knows that it will open even more
opportunities for her. She plans to open her own business and to help her children do so as well to
ensure their future financial stability.

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