Alda’s Journey to a Home of Her Own
We believe every family deserves a safe, stable place to call home. Without proper housing, it’s hard for people to invest in their own futures—or the futures of their children. Alda Rodriguez, a single mother to her five-year-old son Adrian, is about to experience the life-changing impact of homeownership. “It’s hard as a single mother,” Alda shares. “I think everyone dreams of having their own home, their own things. Now I feel like this dream is finally coming true.”
Taking the First Step
Alda was initially hesitant about applying to our Homeownership Program. She wasn’t sure she would qualify and worried about navigating the process, especially with a language barrier. “I thought, maybe I won’t be able to do it,” she says. But we were here to support her through every step of the process. “If you have questions or don’t understand something, there’s always someone there to help,” Alda shared. “They made it feel manageable and were really kind every step of the way.”
What Are the Initial Qualifications for Applicants?
Like Alda, many people hesitate to apply because they’re unsure if they’ll qualify. Before you apply for our Homeownership Program, ask yourself these six questions. To qualify, you must be able to answer “YES” to all six.
If any answer is “NO,” you do not qualify for our program.
Are you 18 years old?
Are you an American citizen or permanent resident right now?
Have you lived in the City of Harrisonburg or Rockingham County for the past 12 months?
Do you have income to pay a mortgage payment?
Will you allow Habitat to do a credit check on you?
Will you partner with Habitat to build your home?
If you meet all these qualifications, or know someone who does, we encourage you to apply. Applications will be accepted online and in person at our Bridgewater office, 205 Dry River Rd, Bridgewater, VA 22812, from Friday, September 26 at 9:00 a.m. until Friday, October 3 at 4:00 p.m. To apply, please visit this page or stop by the office during the listed dates and times.
Paving the Way with Sweat Equity
Sweat equity is a required part of our homeownership process. Every Habitat partner family contributes hours of hands-on work, helping to build their future home and the homes of others.
For Alda, this meant completing 200 hours of sweat equity, working at Habitat’s ReStore on South Main Street and assisting with construction projects. Along the way, she learned new skills, received guidance, and built meaningful connections with volunteers and staff. These hours, combined with the support of the Habitat community, brought her one step closer to her dream of a permanent home for her family.
