“My house will be my home. It will be our safe space. “
For Crystal Chambers, a devoted mother of two and a Payroll Accountant Care Specialist at Paychex, the decision to apply for Habitat for Humanity was driven by one simple truth: “I am building because my children depend on me.” As a faith-based family grounded in love, community, and education, Crystal and her children Jalen and Sanai were desperate for a safe and stable place to call home.
Their previous living situation was riddled with fear and danger. “Our house was shot at during an altercation that took place outside. Myself and my children were inside. So much glass was on our couch and in our living room,” Crystal shared. While Sanai was too young to understand, her son Jalen was deeply shaken. “I was devastated after seeing the look in his eyes.” On top of that, the surrounding environment was filled with negative influences— “My children deserve better, and so do I.”
When Crystal found out she was accepted into the Habitat program, the first thing she thought about was her children. “Relieved,” she said. “Knowing I could provide stability and comfort at a lower cost, so I can save more money to invest in their future.” Her sweat equity hours, working on build sites, have only deepened her appreciation for what this opportunity means. “It was humbling… enriching… motivating. I’ve had hands-on experience that will help when I’m in my own home,” she reflected. “You’ll keep your baseboards clean in your home because you’ll remember the amount of time it took to tape around it so that you can paint it.”
Crystal dreams of the simple joys that many take for granted. “What I’m most looking forward to is allowing my children to play outside,” she said with a smile. “More peace and comfort. No more worrying about if I have to move, or if the rent will increase again.” For her family, this home will be more than four walls—it will be a safe space where love, learning, and laughter thrive.
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This home is sponsored by
Marion Rich and Nancy Ridenour
