“I look forward to getting off work, pulling into my driveway, and saying, ‘Home sweet home! I did it!’”
For Robin Lloyd, becoming a homeowner has always been more than just a dream—it’s been a mission rooted in love, determination, and the hope of building a better life for her family. As a Pavement Apprentice for the City of St. Petersburg, Robin works hard every day, and after 19 months on the job, she is finally seeing the fruit of her labor through the Habitat for Humanity Homeownership Program. “I gave God all the praise!” she said, reflecting on the moment she learned she’d been accepted. “I was so happy for my family because my kids and I will have a forever home. My dream is becoming a reality.”
Robin’s household includes her 83-year-old grandmother Mildred, her 18-year-old daughter Tamya, and her 3-year-old son Jakeim. Caring for her grandmother—who has disabilities—has made their current home feel overcrowded and ill-equipped for their needs. “I took my grandmother in because she can no longer care for herself without assistance,” Robin shared. “But my home doesn’t meet all of her needs. It’s been challenging.” Despite the difficulties, Robin stays grounded in her family and faith, drawing strength from the support they’ve given her. “They have been my greatest cheerleaders… their unwavering belief in me has given me the confidence to pursue my goals and aspirations.”
Through her sweat equity hours, Robin has worked hands-on at build sites, gaining knowledge and making memories she’ll carry into her future as a homeowner. “Helping others has always been my passion,” she said. “To know that this is a place where someone will call home—I worked as if it was my own. I’ve learned skills I’ll use to keep my home updated and in good shape.” She also encourages others to get involved: “Becoming a Habitat volunteer is great. You help families’ dreams become reality, learn how to care for a home, and make new friends along the way.” To learn more about how to become a volunteer and work on homes like the Lloyd-Gunsby family’s, visit our Volunteer Page.
Looking ahead, Robin is excited about the peace and security her new home will bring. “My house will be my home, my safe place, my happy place.” For her, the opportunity to build generational wealth and stability means everything. “Habitat for Humanity is a program that helped me feel better about life… Habitat made it possible for me to afford a new home for my family.”
