“I am building because it secures a future to look forward to.”

Jessica Young has been a Medical Assistant for Professional Healthcare of Pinellas for the past 2 years. She has 3 children: 17- year- old Keith, 14- year-old Serenity, and 12- year- old Honor. Keith enjoys alternative rock music, thrifting, and hanging out with friends. Serenity is artistic, having interests in musical theater, makeup, and arts- and- crafts! Honor find joy in online gaming, swimming, and going to Sky Zone. Jessica works hard to provide for her kids, describing them as her motivation and drive.  Dealing with loss and pain throughout their life has brought the family closer together, learning from each other and growing together.

Jessica and her family, like many others, found themselves in low- income apartments that were unsafe and lacked proper necessities. The landlords would not fulfill their jobs, and they faced issues such as mold, termites, bugs, and broken appliances. The community around these apartments created an unsafe environment for Jessica and her children, adding additional stress. “It sometimes makes it difficult to co-exist when there are always several things to be frustrated about, and it’s understandable” Jessica tells us. With 3 growing children, space is important, and something they lack in their small apartment. “We are unable to use our dining table that holds the portable dryer. The kitchen is very small, so it is hard to cook when all the hoses from the dishwasher and washing machine have to connect to the sink” explains Jessica.

After being accepted into the Habitat program, Jessica can now imagine a life of peace and stability. “The comfort, safety, and security it will bring would be immense. We will find ourselves happier and healthier mentally and physically.” Jessica feels this home can set a foundation for their family to grow, allowing for freedom to choose the way they want to live their lives in their own space. “I look forward to having our own space where I can finally be comfortable” Jessica expressed. As a homeowner, Jessica is excited to have a forever home that her family can return to for generations to come.

For more information on how to apply to the Habitat homeownership program, please visit our Apply Page on our website.

“Having a home could mean more possibilities to grow from there, not just financially but all around as a person. I think it would change our lives forever!”