Homeownership stories

Ray’s journey to affordable homeownership began with an unexpected turning point in 2001 and has since been shaped by perseverance, family, and the dream of stability. Now a future Habitat homeowner in Calgary, Ray is looking ahead to a place his children can grow, feel safe, and truly call home. With an affordable Habitat mortgage and a home under construction, Ray and his family are finally watching their long-held dream take shape.

Mohammed and Tiba are future Habitat for Humanity homeowners preparing to move into a townhouse in Livingston with their two children – Mayar (10) and Adem (4). Their journey to homeownership spans countries, years of uncertainty, and one of the hardest decisions a family can make, all in pursuit of stability for their children.  

For Habitat homeowner Stephanie and her son Izayic, moving just a few blocks away will change everything. After years of renting and frequent moves, the family is preparing for their first-ever home—one that brings long-term stability, affordability, and the chance to stay rooted in the community they already call home.

Hussein, Fatuma, and their three children are ecstatic when they think ahead to moving into their own home and, finally, moving out of Calgary housing. 

For future Habitat homeowners Biniam and Senait, family means everything. Married for 27 years, the couple has built a life centered around love, hard work, and community. After immigrating from Sudan in 2021 with their four children, they have worked tirelessly to build a new beginning in Southern Alberta. Calgary has become a place where their children can grow, learn, and dream big. 

Eyob and Addis never imagined they’d one day own a home. Even thinking about a down payment felt overwhelming. How do you plan for the future when you’re stuck in the rent cycle — paying someone else’s mortgage, stretching every dollar, and living with the constant fear of being told you have to move again?