For many, owning a home is a lifelong dream, but for Ramona and her family, it was a dream that seemed out of reach. Despite working full-time, affordable housing in Sask was not an option due to their unique needs. Ramona’s seven-year-old son, Brayden, is medically fragile and requires oxygen 24 hours a day, along with other medical devices, which made living in a rental home that wasn’t wheelchair accessible especially challenging.

Ramona reached out to Habitat for Humanity Regina, a non-profit organization that helps low-income families achieve affordable and accessible homeownership. Habitat for Humanity builds and renovates homes, and then sells them to families in need at a zero-interest mortgage. The mortgage payments are reinvested into the organization to help build more homes for other families in need.

The family services manager at Habitat for Humanity Regina listened to Ramona’s needs and encouraged her to apply. With the organization’s help, Ramona and her family were able to move into a brand new accessible unit at Haultain Crossing, becoming the first family to do so. The condo was modified to suit Brayden’s special needs with a wheelchair-accessible ramp and a main floor bedroom and en-suite that are all accessible. Each child also has their own bedroom.

Becoming a homeowner through Habitat for Humanity has been a game changer for Ramona and her family. It has enhanced their quality of life, provided them with stability, security, and a healthy environment, and allowed them to build equity for their future. Ramona’s secure employment with a crown corporation has given her the confidence that she can succeed as a homeowner.

The partnership with Habitat for Humanity has also given the family a sense of pride and joy. They are grateful to all the donors who assisted in building their homes in 2018, which has had a huge impact on their lives. The accessibility and modifications made to their home have made their everyday routines more manageable without limitations. Their lives have become more stress-free, and they can now enjoy looking forward to their future as a family in their own home.

In Saskatchewan, affordable housing is a significant issue, with many families struggling to find safe and affordable housing in Sask. Habitat for Humanity Saskatchewan has been working hard to provide families with affordable homeownership opportunities through the building and renovation of homes. The organization’s mission is to help low-income families achieve homeownership, which has a positive impact on their well-being and the community as a whole.

Ramona’s journey with Habitat Saskatchewan is a testament to the importance of accessible and affordable housing in Sask. Habitat for Humanity’s partnership with families in need creates a brighter future, not only for the families involved but for the community as a whole.