Jessica, a resilient and determined resident of London, KY, walked into Highlands Housing Corporation in October 2023 with a clear goal: she wanted a home of her own.
At the time, she lived in a small apartment and worked steadily, carefully building toward homeownership. As a single-person household, she envisioned something modest – a small two-bedroom, one-bath house with a bit of land. Jessica grew up understanding instability. Because of that, she valued structure, financial responsibility, and self-sufficiency. Homeownership wasn’t a luxury to her. It meant stability, defined as a place she could afford without stretching herself thin.
Soon after beginning the approval process, however, her life changed. An unexpected family situation arose, and Jessica stepped forward to take temporary custody of her great-niece.
She had not planned to become a parent. Independence had always been central to her identity. But when a child in her family needed stability, Jessica didn’t hesitate. Overnight, her household grew from one to two, and her idea of home began to change.
Her small apartment, already tight for one, now felt even smaller. With no outdoor space for a child, she began imagining something different. A place where her great-niece could ride her bike, explore the outdoors, and experience the simple joys of childhood. Her priorities shifted from convenience to safety and space.
The path to that home was not quick. There were adjustments along the way, but Jessica stayed patient and focused. When documentation was needed, she provided it. When a more affordable house plan made better financial sense, she chose it. She remained committed to building a future she could sustain.
The team at Highlands Housing Corporation worked alongside her throughout the process. Because traditional lenders were not an option, they helped structure the financing through the USDA 502 Direct Loan program, layering in HOME funds and grant assistance to make the purchase possible. Their expertise navigating rural lending programs and guiding clients through complex requirements helped turn Jessica’s plan into reality.
Jessica often credits the Highlands team for advocating on her behalf and helping to navigate the process. But those who worked with her say the same about Jessica. She showed up. She followed through. She stayed the course.
What began as a plan for independence has become the foundation for a family. In stepping forward for her great-niece, Jessica discovered something she had not expected: the desire to raise a child and build a life together.