“The Habitat for Humanity program is a great opportunity to provide stability and a sense of pride for yourself and family.”
Michelle Bodine, a dedicated single mother and Account Manager at Century Fire Protection, is on a transformative journey to create safe and stable home for her three children: Brielle (11), Osiris (4), and Samiyah (2). As a mother, Michelle’s greatest desire is to provide a nurturing environment where her children can thrive. “My family is everything to me,” she says. “Everything I do, I do for them. I just want to make their lives better.” Despite her hard work, Michelle’s current living situation—a small two-bedroom apartment—has posed significant challenges. “There’s no space or privacy. My son and youngest daughter share a room, and I sleep in the living room,” she explains.
Michelle’s children are full of life and energy, each with unique interests. Brielle, her eldest, is a social butterfly who loves cheerleading, swimming, and playing the flute. “She’s my rock; she’s helped me grow so much,” Michelle shares with pride. Osiris, her 4-year-old, is a Marvel fan and self-proclaimed protector of his sisters. And Samiyah, the youngest, is known as the “wild child,” always dancing and singing at the top of her lungs. “My kids are my world,” Michelle emphasizes, “but apartment living isn’t ideal, especially when you have little ones who just want to be kids.”
When Michelle learned she had been accepted into the Habitat for Humanity program, she was overwhelmed with emotion. “I was in shock. The first thing I did was call my mom and cry,” she recalls.
For Michelle, owning a Habitat home means more than just having her own space. “I can finally give my children a home where they can be themselves,” she envisions. “I’m looking forward to a place where Brielle can practice her cheers and where the younger two can run around without disturbing neighbors.” Michelle is especially excited about creating a welcoming environment for her family and friends, where her parents can visit without having to navigate multiple flights of stairs.
“The thing I’m most looking forward to is having my own space. I haven’t had that in 11 years,” she says.
