“I feel like after having a Habitat home would be the beginning of my life’s journey.”

Carmen de Zengotita is a Certified Hemodialysis Tech at Fresenius Kidney Care and a mother to an 8 year daughter named Julianna. The mommy-daughter duo are best friends and LOVE to hang out together. “I know that sounds so cliché, but having her young, I’ve always felt like it’s just me and her and that made our bond indescribable. That’s really my baby.” The two LOVE to watch Disney movies together! “We absolutely love Disney movies. Although, they always have a scene that would make me cry. She would see it coming and always look at me and wait to see if I’m going to cry or not and just laugh at me.”

The de Zengotita Family is eager to move into their forever home. They have struggled a lot in the past with loss of power in outlets and leaks in the kitchen and bathroom. “I would say the most challenging part would be having leaks from because they would later cause mold and with my daughter having asthma it made it even more difficult.”

When Carmen first found out that she was accepted into the Habitat program, she shouldn’t believe it. “It felt so surreal. I felt like I was waiting for a “but” or “however” to come after hearing I was accepted. I couldn’t wait to tell my daughter. I wanted to just fall down and cry. I’ve been working hard for so long and to finally feel like I have something to show for it.”

Carmen has not had the opportunity to work onsite for her sweat equity hours, but is eager to do so. “I’m nervous because I have no clue about anything that has to do with building a house, I struggled building my daughters doll house, but I’m thankful to have this opportunity to work with genuine, good hearted people who are willing to do this for others.”

Julianna and her mom are excited to begin making new memories in a place they can call their home. “I can’t wait for our first Christmas because one thing my daughter has always wanted is to have a house we can put Christmas lights around, and all the Christmas decorations on the front yard. That moment will be really special for me to finally be able to do that with and for her.”

“Don’t be afraid to apply, because even if you don’t get accepted the first time, they can guide you and tell you what you need to do in order to be accepted the next time you try. Always be proud for doing what you can to give yourself and your family a better life.”

The de Zengotita Family Home was dedicated on November 22nd, 2021 and was sponsored by the 10th Annual Golfing Fore Habitat Tournament.