“Knowledge is power. The knowledge I learn from this program, I can teach other potential participants.”
Porscha McKinnie and James Clayton Sr. are hardworking parents who are raising four children and working towards their Habitat forever home. Porscha has been working as a Family & Community Engagement Specialist at Lutheran Services Head Start for 15 years and James has been a manager at Subway for 13 years. Their oldest daughter, Jar’Asia, is 16-years-old and loves to play video games and watch YouTube videos on hair tutorials. Their second oldest daughter, Dominique, is 9-years-old and loves to play with legos, build puzzles, and play video games as well. Porscha and James also have two 1-year-old twins names Jamie and James Jr. who are still exploring the world and are slowly learning to walk and use their words. “As a family, we are all different. However, we find ways to include everyone’s interests and styles to make family night fun.”
The McKinne-Clayton family is currently on Section 8 Housing. Because of this, it has been increasingly difficult to save money because each time they receive a raise income, their rent also goes up. Their current apartment also has plumbing issues each time it rains due to a ditch located on the property. Porscha tells us “I recently found out the property that I am currently renting the owners want to sell the unit. I have been looking for a new place to move. I am currently on three different apartment waitlists which is not guaranteed that I will get in.”
When Porscha and James were accepted into the Habitat for Humanity program, their first thoughts were that they were excited, but also nervous. “Although I have not started my sweat equity hours, I plan on learning everything this experience have to offer. I expect to learn how to build and learn what hard work and dedication will get me in life.” They are eager to learn more about saving, budgeting, and all that comes with being a homeowner. After moving into their new, safe, and affordable home, the family expects their life to feel stable and complete. “I will be able to give my family a place to call home.”
Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas & West Pasco Counties is making a further commitment and investment advocating for the advancement of affordable homeownership. If you are interested in learning more about how the affiliate is advocating for families such as the McKinnie-Claytons, please check out our Advocacy Page.
“Habitat for Humanity is a blessing. They are giving families a way to own a home with zero interest. No other home buying program is offering this for families.”
This home is sponsored by:
The McKinnie-Clayton Family home was dedicated on June 24th, 2022.
