“I want a foundation to build financial success.  A home of my own is that foundation.”

Debra has worked for Pinellas County Schools for 32 years! 29 of which were spent at Largo High School. She has also been a caretaker all of her life and for the first time in her life she willing be living on her own without caring for family. 

For eleven years her son and his family moved into the small apartment.  “At one time there was 8 of us in this small, one bedroom and one bathroom apartment.  My apartment has a loft which was covered by beds. I used to joke you had to go outside to change your mind.”

Dropping out of school at the age of 15 due to the racial riots of Dixie Hollins HS back in 1975, she was a married parent at 16 and a single-mother by 18 years of age. Hardworking, headstrong and virtuous Debra continued to do what was best for her and her newborn by enrolling at a vocational school where she learned the skills necessary to launch her into employment.

Debra and her family have lived at the same address for 17 years.  “I live in a poor area of High Point near the St. Petersburg / Clearwater airport. It was the most affordable housing I could budget.”  Debra’s time in her apartment consisted of less than ideal conditions, including water damage, mold, and various other issues that would never get resolved. 

However, Debra was beyond relieved when she received the news that she was accepted into the Habitat for Humanity program and would be receiving a brand new home! “I cried.  I cried like I haven’t cried.  I thanked God for his help in guiding me to Habitat and making this process possible.”

“I’m proud to be a Habitat for Humanity Homeowner Candidate and very proud to be a member of the Tellor Estates Habitat Community.  I can’t imagine how great it will be to live with other homeowners who worked hard for their homes too.  I’m VERY BLESSED.”

The Howard Family Home was dedicated on May 25th, 2021 and was sponsored by Kane’s Furniture.