Content warning: This article contains a brief mention of abusive relationships.
For many, the dream of owning a home can feel just out of reach, especially when faced with the challenges of financial instability, high rent costs, and the weight of life’s uncertainties. But for Stacy, a local art teacher, the journey to homeownership was more than just a dream—it was a long fight for stability and security.
For the past 20 years, Stacy often juggled two or three jobs just to make ends meet. As a professional artist and teacher, she faced the unique challenges of a fluctuating income and the realities of being a “starving artist.”
“I thought I would never be able to own a home,” Stacy said. “You work hard, and it feels like everything is just out of reach. Even though I’m well-educated and have been working multiple jobs, I couldn’t afford the rent, let alone save for a home.”
Stacy’s journey to homeownership is not just a story of financial hardship—it is also an emotional one. Nine years ago, she escaped an abusive relationship and then found herself in a vulnerable state. For many women like Stacy, the barriers to leaving an abusive relationship are also economic.
“There are so many women who stay in situations because they feel like they don’t have the financial means to leave,” Stacy says. “I know what it feels like to feel trapped and alone. It’s hard to ask for help, and it’s even harder when you don’t know where to turn. But for me, Habitat has been that helping hand up. Without it, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
After years of working towards improving her finances, Stacy was able to qualify for a mortgage and was selected for Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity’s homeownership program, bringing her one step closer to the stability that she had always yearned for.
As part of her partnership with GMHFH, Stacy has to complete 200 hours of sweat equity by helping to build her own home.
“It felt like another part-time job,” Stacy shared. “But I was willing to do it because I knew that this was my future. I wanted to be hands-on in the process of building my own home, and it gave me a sense of connection to something bigger than just me.”
Today, Stacy is looking forward to the next chapter of her life. With her new home on the horizon, she is excited about the possibility of decorating, painting, and creating a space that is truly her own.
“Choosing the paint colors… there’s something about that that makes it feel real. I’m finally going to have a place to call home where I can build my roots,” she said.
As a teacher, she is passionate about community building and using her creative talents to inspire others. She’s excited to give back to this community, whether it’s by helping with future Habitat builds or sharing her experience with other families who are on their own journey to homeownership.
For Stacy, this new era of her life is like a blank canvas, and she is excited to fill it with beautiful, bright colors.
“Having a home isn’t just about having a roof over your head. It’s about creating a safe space where you can finally feel grounded and at peace,” she said. “After all the years of moving and living in uncertainty, this is going to be my forever home.”
If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity’s program, or if you’d like to volunteer or donate to support families like Stacy’s, visit our website to get involved today!
