For Veronica and her four children, her three daughters and son ranging in age from16 to 5 years old, the road to homeownership has been one of resilience, hope, and determination. Veronica has faced significant challenges but remains steadfast in her dream of providing her family with a stable home.
Veronica, a Tucson native and single mother, works for the Arizona Department of Economic Security. Her career has seen twists and turns, including resigning from her previous job to care for her children during COVID-19 school closures. “I couldn’t find anyone to stay with the kids,” she recalls. This sacrifice is just one of many Veronica has made to prioritize her family’s well-being.
Currently living in a single room in her sister’s home, Veronica yearns for stability. “We didn’t know stability growing up,” she shares, reflecting on her childhood, during which her family moved frequently and lacked a secure foundation. Her mother’s passing at a young age left her on her own, but Veronica is determined to break the cycle.
Despite numerous setbacks, Veronica’s resolve never faltered. When her attempts to buy a home through traditional means proved challenging due to financial limitations, she turned to Habitat Tucson. Encouraged by her children’s grandmother, Veronica applied to the program. “I’ve always wanted to give my kids a stable home and something to inherit,” she says.
Through Habitat Tucson’s program, Veronica has taken on sweat equity hours—an integral part of the journey. Initially daunted, she found encouragement from other future homeowners. “At first, I didn’t think I could do it. I was scared, but I’ve learned that it’s okay to feel out of place. I can do it,” she says.
Her oldest daughter has joined her in contributing hours, even inviting friends to volunteer. “She loves it and tells her friends about it,” Veronica says proudly.
Despite living with rheumatoid arthritis, which sometimes limits her ability to work outdoors, Veronica remains committed to her goal. Her dedication is fueled by the thought of seeing her children thrive in their new home. “I look forward to seeing my kids smile because they’ll have their own rooms,” she shares. “We’ll finally have a place to call our own, where we can create memories and feel comfortable.”
The impact of this journey extends beyond the walls of their future home. Through Habitat’s program, Veronica has learned essential skills to maintain her home independently, a lesson she’s passing on to her children. “As a single mom, it’s important that I know how to fix things on my own,” she says.
For Veronica, the word “home” means stability. This new chapter promises just that—a foundation where her family can grow and flourish. Although the road has been challenging, she draws strength from the promise of a brighter future.