As you may know, my name is Santana Jaramillo. I first wish to thank you for the privilege of becoming an owner of a Habitat home. I was born and raised in this beautiful valley and consider it a great honor to be part of this community. I am rooted in this valley. It has blessed me with the support of my family, an education, many adventures, and my dream career of serving as a district court clerk for the Honorable Rachel Olguin-Fresquez.
For many years I struggled with housing and my living situation. My temporary housing had ended and at one point, I had no idea what I was going to do next. I had applied countlessly to apartments and been on waitlists for years. I was so desperate that I even applied for apartments that I knew would put me in financial hardship; that is, they would have consumed over 65 percent of my monthly income, depleted my savings, and created a significant obstacle to my future.
I did not want to witness my baby girl grow with no ability to provide food, snacks, clothes, or toys. With pure love and support from my family, a tiny room was offered for us to share. My growing child and I accepted this with gratitude and grace. However, it came at a cost. We were limited to sharing a bed with thin walls and without autonomy. Our ability to dream, play, create, and become the people I know we were destined to be was hindered because we literally had no room to grow, and no independence. This affected both our physical and mental health. However, regardless of the challenges we faced, I still had hope because I learned the ways in which families had been blessed through Habitat.
I clearly remember the day I took my application into Habitat. The sun seemed a bit brighter, full of love, and a bit warmer as it soaked into my skin. I was greeted with the sweetest welcome and smiles from Elena and Katlyn as I handed over my sticker filled envelope decorated by my daughter.
Months later, I received a call directing me to come to Habitat and complete one more question. I was so nervous as I wrote my response and oblivious to my surroundings. And then, I heard cheers and saw balloons filling the air. Honestly, I was unable to comprehend what was going on until I was handed the “Future Home Owner T-shirt.” Then tears ran down my face and I felt my beaming smile reflecting my humblest appreciation.
In the past few months, I have found it empowering to have learned so much about construction as a family partnered with Habitat. I now know how to use a power tool, can effectively caulk walls, and have improved the accuracy of my measuring skills. I have also met so many amazing, kind, and compassionate people. I strongly believe that being a homeowner through Habitat is a privilege, an honor, and an investment in my family and our community. I will always cherish it.
Thank you so very much.