Wilma’s Story
When introducing herself, Wilma says, “I am Wilma. I am a loving mother, loving grandmother, and a great grandmother!” And she’d love nothing more than to share that love with her four children, 22 grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren in her very own home, with everyone relaxing on the porch and playing in the yard.
As a little girl, Wilma always dreamed of having her own home, but, as they say, “life happens.” After leaving home and going out on her own, she got married and spent years living in apartments. But Wilma remembered what her mama always told her. “Don’t ever let nothing stop you. Just go ahead and try it.” So after praying everyday for a home of her own, Wilma found her way to the Habitat program and now her dream is coming true!
Wilma reflects fondly on her mother and the rest of her family. “I had a good childhood, a lovely childhood. My mother and father raised us right.” Her eyes light up as she recalls searching for brightly colored eggs her parents hid for her and her two sisters and two brothers at Easter time!
Wilma keeps those childhood memories of holiday meals and celebrations, especially Thanksgiving and Christmas shared with her family, close to her heart. And she wants more than anything to pass the legacy of celebrations and togetherness down to her family, set a good example, and raise her family right.
Getting herself into a Habitat home is a fantastic way to pass on her legacy. “They will be excited, they will love it, and they will see what I got, and it will encourage them to go out there and do the same thing I did.”
The benefits of Habitat truly are expansive. Wilma is also excited about the changes Habitat is bringing to her own life. She can’t wait to save on housing costs, freeing her up to do more with her money. She is learning “there’s so much you know that you didn’t know” through homeowner classes and will be prepared for the challenges homeownership brings. She’s happy to have made lots of new friends through Habitat, some of whom will be her new neighbors!
Wilma is very enthusiastic about working with Habitat. When telling people about the homeownership program, she says, “The whole process is great. I love it. They walk you through everything. They take you through the journey. It’s lovely. Just come out here and give it a try.” She is also grateful for everyone at Habitat and says, “I thank everybody for what they’re doing and I appreciate what you’re all doing, because if it weren’t for you I wouldn’t be here and I appreciate it. Thank you.”
The Habitat program has also been a journey of self-discovery for Wilma. “So, I found out I’m strong, I’m smart, I’m a better person, and I’m going to keep going. And for Wilma, that’s a win. It really is a good win.”
It’s a win for everybody. Building strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter ... That’s what Habitat for Humanity is all about!