Exciting Times in Chattanooga as Habitat for Humanity Celebrates 300th Home Dedication
On September 12, the cheerful community of Chattanooga is gearing up for a big celebration! Habitat for Humanity of Greater Chattanooga is set to dedicate their 300th home, and this special milestone is all about a wonderful future homeowner named Tangela and her family.
Celebrating Homeownership
For those unfamiliar with it, Habitat for Humanity’s dedication ceremonies are filled with joy and meaning. They mark the moment a family officially completes the journey of becoming homeowners. It’s a milestone that shows off the hard work and dedication that families put into their futures, alongside the invaluable help from volunteers and sponsors. The entire event is a chance for the community to come together and applaud the beauty of hard work paying off.
A Journey Through the Storm
Tangela’s path to homeownership hasn’t been easy. In 2021, she faced a personal tempest, experiencing the loss of her sister, her brother’s serious health crisis, and a sudden end to her marriage all within just a few months. “I felt like I was living through a storm. But finally, my storm has come to a calm,” she shared, reflecting on her struggles. After a lot of tears, prayer, and encouragement from her children, grandchildren, and mother, Tangela decided it was time for a significant change in her life.
In 2022, she took a big step and applied for Habitat’s housing program. By January of 2023, she was officially accepted! Many would have thought the process slow, but Tangela sprinted through her “sweat equity hours” in record time. This commitment required her to leave her work at a local manufacturing plant and dedicate herself to building not only her home but also working on the homes of others as well.
A Fairytale Ending
With the home dedication around the corner, Tangela believes she is now living the mission of Habitat: “better homes, better community, and a better world.” She expresses how surreal the experience feels, almost like a fairytale come true!
A Remarkable Partnership
Not only does this dedication mark a fresh beginning for Tangela, but it’s also a moment for Habitat for Humanity to reflect on their remarkable impact within the Chattanooga community. The organization’s President and CEO shared how this milestone represents the lives of 300 families who have benefited from the opportunity of homeownership. Every home built tells a story of strength, perseverance, and community support.
A crucial partner in this journey has been Publix Super Markets Charities. Their support has been instrumental in making this dream a reality for families like Tangela’s. The executive director of the charity expressed pride in their ongoing partnership, emphasizing that owning a home can mean stability and independence for individuals in the community.
Looking Ahead
Excitingly, Tangela’s home is just the first of two homes being sponsored by Publix in the same neighborhood! Construction on the second home is set to begin soon after Tangela officially closes on her new place, ensuring that the spirit of community support continues to grow.
As the residents of Chattanooga gather to celebrate this inspiring moment, it’s clear that the dedication of this 300th home will not just be an event but a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community. Here’s to new beginnings, happy memories, and the beautiful world of homeownership!
