“You could say it’s my dream house,” Rebekah says.  

When you look at things from Rebekah’s point of view, you quickly realize it’s not just about the challenges she faces but her consistent motivation and enjoyment for life. Legally blind and living with autoimmune issues, Rebekah’s quest for a suitable home has been anything but straightforward. Now, after hearing about the program from her sister, she will soon be a homeowner of a house specifically designed to meet her needs. 

Originally from Bloomington, Rebekah has encountered numerous housing challenges, ranging from affordability and landlord issues to difficulties with Bloomington Transit access and a lack of accessible accommodations. Her current residence, secured through Section 8 housing, is an upgrade from her last, but it still falls short. The hilly terrain and inadequate accessibility features have made daily life challenging. “It’s not bad for a house, but it’s not great for me,” she explains.  

While issues finding housing is not a unique problem, Rebekah’s situation is a bit more complicated. “Buying a home, especially in Bloomington, is difficult,” Rebekah says. “I have a lot of mobility issues, and my income makes it harder.”  

Rebekah’s new home has been a source of optimism. The new house will be equipped with all the modifications she requires, like a safer shower with a sliding glass door and electric stove, which is safer for her than a gas one. It will also be a vibrant space, reflecting her personality with bright, “princess” colors she chose herself – including the first pink-flecked counter tops Habitat has ordered. “I tell people to wear sunglasses whenever they see the new house,” she says with laughter. “I’ve always liked pink. My sister says I’m like a princess!” 

Rebekah is particularly excited about the location of her new home, right next to RCA Park, as she enjoys the outdoors. “I can’t stay inside on a nice, sunny day. Being outside is healing for me,” she said. The flat, accessible terrain will allow her to enjoy outdoor walks independently—a significant improvement from her current situation. “I’m looking forward to walking to RCA Park on my own,” she says. “It’s a big deal for me to have a flat area to walk in.” 

Furthermore, Rebekah’s new home will make it more convenient to spend time with her family, adding to her excitement about the move. Her sister, who lives closer to Rebekah’s future home than her current one, often hosts family get-togethers at her home. “I’ll be closer to my sister and the places she takes her grandkids to, which will make it easier for her to come get me!” 

Rebekah’s involvement with Habitat has also been transformative. “You have to work for your home, which you should,” she says. Rebekah has found joy and purpose in her participation, whether it’s through working at ReStore or interacting with the Habitat community. “I’ve enjoyed everything so far,” she says. “I love joking around with the customers at ReStore and helping them find what they need. It helped keep me going.” 

Looking ahead, Rebekah is optimistic about the changes the new home will bring. “I’m excited about the new house,” she says. “This was about the only way for me to find something more suitable for me.” As she prepares for this new chapter, it’s clear that Rebekah’s spirit and resilience have paved the way for a brighter future in her new, accessible, and pink dream house. 

Rebekah’s home was made possible by Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County’s Women+ Build.