Stories - Housing Can't Wait

Impact Stories

Everyone deserves a safe, affordable place to call home. The stories of the people we serve prove what’s possible when communities come together to create opportunity. From first-time homebuyers overcoming financial barriers to seniors gaining the security to age in place, these real-life experiences highlight the transformational power of housing. Each impact story is a testament to resilience. To hope. Click below to explore how lives are being changed every day.

A man stands in front of a house holding up a colorful patchwork quilt, addressing a small group of people gathered outside.

THREADS OF STABILITY

James McClain came to Tennessee’s Loudon County Habitat for Humanity in January 2023, hoping to move from a poorly maintained one-bedroom apartment to a new home — one that he would own after providing 250 hours of sweat equity helping Habitat staff and volunteers with construction.

A Home for Two: Jessica’s Path to Stability in London, Kentucky

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. 

On Higher Ground

In July of 2022, flood waters filled Clova Short’s home of 35 years in eastern Kentucky. In the storm’s wake, walls grew mold and mildew and floors collapsed. Yet her family of three couldn’t move out, even enduring more flooding in successive months.

The Foundation for a Successful Reentry

In the two years since his release from prison, Josh Scarberry has made great strides towards a brighter future: reinstating his driver’s license, buying a car, getting married, and graduating from a one-year technology program in lighting and sound. Buying a house in Bristol, Virginia, set a solid foundation for this work.

Philanthropy + Workforce Upskilling = Affordable Homes

The Housing Hub’s newest two-bedroom, one-bathroom cottage will have 864 sq ft of living space, but its actual footprint will be much larger. That’s because the organization has set out to prove it can build an affordable home without any government subsidies.

From Setbacks to Stability

Rolander Lindsey tried to buy a home twice – and failed twice – before Fahe’s JustChoice Lending helped her succeed. She had to start from scratch, but she received an accessible mortgage and support on paperwork and deadlines through the homebuying process.

A man and woman sit close together on a large rock in a wooded area, both wearing matching purple “Walk for Recovery” t-shirts and participant badges.

More Than an Apartment

Mary Smith and her family had an on-going housing challenge because of a lack of affordable options and her seven years in active addiction. With the help of Garrett County Community Action Committee, she now has an apartment and is turning her life around.

A smiling couple sits closely together on a cozy, textured couch with patterned pillows. Their relaxed posture and joyful expressions reflect warmth, comfort, and a sense of home.

First-Time Homebuyers Save Time and Money by Eliminating Long Commute

Newlyweds Bobbi McSwine and Tyran Price didn’t think they would qualify for a home loan because of student loans and lack of a down payment. Both traveled over an hour each way from their home in Shelbyville, Kentucky to Lexington for work, and they dreamed of saving both money and time by living closer to their jobs.

A smiling woman stands beside a young person in a wheelchair outside a brick building, near a colorful chalkboard sign that reads "Cafe OPEN NOW." Red and blue balloons add a festive touch, suggesting a welcoming and inclusive community space.

Living the Golden Rule

For Nikki Price, finding a two-bedroom apartment with access for her son, Kale, and his wheelchair in Belington, West Virginia, population 1700, was challenging. In addition, she doesn’t own a vehicle and needed a place that was walkable.

A group of volunteers, wearing aprons and masks, stand behind a serving table filled with trays of food. They are smiling as they prepare to serve meals, with a variety of dishes visible, such as casseroles and baked goods. The volunteers range in age and ethnicity, and they are all wearing gloves as they help with the meal service. The background shows additional people in line, and the setting appears to be a community meal or event at a large indoor space.

ON MLK JR. DAY OF SERVICE, ALABAMA RURAL MINISTRY HONORS THE LEGACY OF DR. KING BY IMPROVING HOUSING FOR THE ELDERLY AND DISABLED

Each year, Fahe Member Alabama Rural Ministry (ARM), an interdenominational faith-based organization with connections to the United Methodist Church, hosts volunteer opportunities in Tuskegee to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on the MLK Jr. Day of Service.