“Habitat Tucson fulfilled a huge dream and a goal, which was homeownership, and that resiliency, that hope, and knowing that nothing is too big for you, that you can do it—just as long as you're surrounded with love, patient people, and God is at your center. You can do anything, and He'll help you along the way.”
Three years ago, Vannesa’s life was turned upside down. She was living in a duplex when the homeowner, who had become ill, gave her a 30-day notice to vacate as he needed to sell the property. During the same month, she experienced the devastating loss of her boyfriend, leaving her to cope with grief while scrambling to find a new place to live. Without the financial resources to secure another apartment, she and her twin children had to move in with her mother in Oro Valley. Sharing one bedroom with her twins while commuting to Rincon High School made the situation even more challenging.
After three months of saving, she was able to afford another duplex, but it only had two bedrooms. Since her children were older and needed their own space, she slept in the living room. Unfortunately, the neighborhood was unsafe, especially during the COVID pandemic. A large homeless camp near the property led to frequent disturbances, including individuals banging on windows and doors, stealing water, and creating an unsafe environment. Her children felt scared, and she resorted to sleeping with a gun nearby to protect them.
Determined to improve their living conditions, she consulted a lender about obtaining a mortgage. However, as a single mother with limited income, the costs were beyond her reach. This series of hardships ultimately led her to apply for Habitat for Humanity. Vannesa heard about our Home Ownership Program through a relative who encouraged her to apply. This family has gone through deep loss and sacrifice to now find their way to their forever home with Habitat Tucson. “We’re not only just building our homes—we’re building character, perseverance. It’s building for my future,” she shared with pride.
She was surprised to discover how much she enjoyed the hands-on work involved in building her home. Tasks like hammering, cutting, and using tools, which initially felt intimidating, became rewarding experiences. Despite her struggles with math, the volunteers and staff at the CHUCK Center and on the job site were incredibly patient, teaching her how to measure accurately and use tools with confidence. Their guidance reduced her fear and inspired her to keep showing up, learn new skills, and believe in her own abilities.
One of the most emotional moments of her journey came when Vannesa took her children to visit the site where she was assigned her official lot and showed them the house she had been working on, the one her heart was set on. When she told them, “Congratulations, it’s ours now,” her kids were shocked and overjoyed. The smiles on their faces were priceless, filling her with emotion and pride as she shared this milestone with them. Vannesa’s story is one of resilience, perseverance, and faith. Through her partnership with Habitat for Humanity, she has built not only a home but also a brighter future for her family—a forever home where they can create lasting memories and thrive together.