November / December 2018
Meet the Rivera Family
“Our family means everything to us. Having our own home will provide a sense of security.” Edward and Stephanie have four beautiful children. Noah is 8, loves to draw and wants to play t-ball. Nicholas, who is 7, was diagnosed with Autism at the age of 2. Through early intervention, Nicholas has developed into an intelligent boy who loves school. Arabella is 4 and loves ballet and cheerleading. Addison, a strong willed and smart 1 ½ year old, is determined to keep up with her siblings. When they were younger, Edward and Stephanie did BOARD OF DIRECTORS not always make good financial choices. For the last several years, they have worked diligently to clean up Will Sunter their credit by being careful with their spending and President budgeting to save for things instead of using financing. Elias Mahshie Vice-President Stacy Jones Secretary Tommy Williamson Treasurer Jeff Cardillo Past President
Stephanie graduated from Charlotte Technical College as a certified dental assistant, and Edward recently received his certification as a water restoration technician. With a rent payment of $1,070 per month, it is difficult for Edward and Stephanie to make ends meet. Stephanie says, “We do our best to budget our money for rent, utilities, food, home VOTING DIRECTORS necessities and gas.”
James Coalwell Jay Gordon Greg Griner Paul Lioon Roger Miller Steven Vito Pastor Rich Webb Brittney Williamson CEO Mike Mansfield
After the Riveras learned about Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity’s homeownership program, it did not take them long to gather the documents required to submit an application. Once approved, Edward and Stephanie began to work on their sweat equity and take their homeowner education classes knowing they were working on securing a brighter future for their family. Purchasing their own home through Habitat will change the Rivera family forever. Edward said,
Edward and Stephanie will no longer be burdened with high rent, and they look forward to being able to save money and not worry about purchasing groceries or putting gas in their car. The children will be able to participate in sports and classes to expand their skills and interests. Stephanie said, “All we want is a second chance to make a good life for our family.” The Rivera family is one of 35 families that will be working through Charlotte County Habitat’s homeownership program this year. Currently, we have 24 families approved and working on their program requirements. Affordable housing remains limited locally, and we continue to speak with a large number of in-need families. Winston Churchill said, “We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.” Will you please consider making a year-end contribution? Your gift will help change lives forever. Children like the Riveras will grow up in safe, decent homes and will have the opportunity to thrive. On behalf of our staff, board of directors and the families we serve, thank you for believing in the Habitat mission. Together, we can continue to make dreams come true and build a stronger community one family at a time. God bless you, Gabrielle Reineck Senior Director of Outreach
www.charlottecountyhfh.org