Susan and her daughter Molly moved into their Habitat for Humanity home two years ago.  They lived in a house that was used as a store by Susan's great-grandmother. 

The house did not have central heating and the ceiling and floors had deteriorated badly over the years.  While Molly's brother slept in the only bedroom,  Susan and Molly shared a bed in the dining area.

Susan read about Habitat for Humanity accepting applications in the local newspaper.  The first time she applied she was not accepted, because there was no program for people who owned their own land.  Susan was apprehensive applying the second time, worrying she would be denied again.  Her sister encouraged her to try again. 

All her fears were put aside when she learned of the new program to accommodate her special circumstances. 

It was a leap of faith for Susan to be willing to deed her property over to Habitat for Humanity.  Habitat in turn tore down her old home and built her new one.  Susan and her family lived with her sister during the demolition and construction.  She says she was lucky, since it took just under a year for the whole process to take place.  Susan started working on her sweat equity hours immediately; she wanted nothing to come between her and her new home.

Susan takes pride in her Habitat home and has a real eye for decorating.  Her home is cozy and appealing.  She says she felt like she "won the lottery" when she was selected to get a Habitat home.  When  people come to visit and admire her new home, she reminds them Habitat offers "A hand up, not a hand out."  Susan proudly makes her house payments.

Regarding her new home, eight year old Molly  says, "This house is better. It's bigger and the floors aren't shaky when you walk on them."  She also likes having her own bedroom.  She can have her friends spend the night in the top bunk in her room.

Susan and Molly are happy members of the Habitat for Humanity family.  They advise anyone who thinks they may qualify to apply.  It could be the chance of a lifetime.