Maria's Family

Maria is the mother of teenage twins, Anthony and Ava, as well as an adult son who no longer lives with her. The twins attend different schools and participate in a variety of church and school activities, keeping their mom busy!

Although Maria works full-time with plants – one of her passions – the family struggles to make ends meet. They rely on Section 8 housing and share a two-bedroom apartment.

She describes Section 8 as “a blessing but a challenge as well,” noting that many landlords discriminate against tenants who receive housing assistance. Rents in Colorado Springs continue to rise, and “paying someone else’s mortgage is discouraging,” she says.

Not only that, “I wanted my children to have their own room,” she explains.

She’s also excited about joining the fellowship of Pikes Peak Habitat homeowners in our neighborhood at The Ridge at Sand Creek. “I will be part of a community,” she says. “I am looking forward to [helping] build my own house, as well as others in my neighborhood, and help and get to know people in my community.”

Maria concludes, “This is a great opportunity for my family. I know it will be hard work, and I am ready for it. I feel blessed to be selected and will put in 100%.”