In 2015, Juana left Florida and arrived in Bloomington with a dream of positive change. She was drawn by the opportunity to experience the changing seasons, earn a better living, and provide more for her family. Additionally, the pull of family was strong, as her uncle already lived in Bloomington and she knew she’d have support.
In Florida, Juana worked with various types of plants, finding joy and fascination in their variety. Upon moving to Bloomington, she discovered a new world of plants and a career in hospitality. She currently works as a Housekeeping Attendant and Supervisor. Though she once considered moving back to Florida, her children’s love for Bloomington’s weather solidified their stay.
Juana first learned about the Habitat Homeownership Program through a referral from a friend at work. After three years of living in Bloomington, she applied and was accepted into the program. However, balancing work, childcare, and the required 250 sweat equity hours proved challenging. Feeling uncertain, Juana withdrew from the program.
As her children grew older, they expressed a strong desire for stability, less moving, and an end to renting. Juana made a deal with them: if they could all work together as a family, sharing responsibilities at home and supporting each other, she would reapply to the Habitat program. With their support, she reapplied and was thrilled to be accepted once again.
Unlike the impermanence of renting, Juana relished the opportunity to choose the details of her home—countertops, siding, flooring—elements that would make it uniquely hers and her family’s.
Despite the initial intimidation of working on the construction site to build her own home and the homes of others, Juana found it empowering and even enjoyable.
“Time flies as we work,” she says. “I particularly appreciate the relaxation that painting brought.”
She began to envision her future home with every brushstroke, feeling a deep sense of ownership and pride.
Juana has also enjoyed the educational aspects of the Habitat program, especially the money management classes. She finds satisfaction in learning and developing new skills, and she encourages others to take advantage of these opportunities.
Outside of her Habitat journey, Juana and her children love spending time together. They enjoy going to the park, exploring new restaurants, and traveling. Juana looks forward to starting new traditions, such as hosting family gatherings in their new home.
Juana’s story is one of determination, family support, and the pursuit of stability. Her journey with Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County has not only brought her closer to homeownership but has also empowered her to build a brighter future for herself and her children.
Juana’s home was made possible by a Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI) 1.0 grant awarded by the Indiana Uplands READI steering committee and Regional Opportunity Initiatives.