Making It Work in a Small Space
For Mark and Karen, home has always meant doing their best to make things work even when space is tight and the future feels uncertain.
The family of three currently lives in a two-bedroom condo with their energetic two-year-old son, Lucas. Since moving to the city, they’ve already had to relocate twice, each move bringing new stress, added costs, and the challenge of starting over again.
Now, they’re quickly outgrowing their current space and feeling the pressure of an unpredictable rental market.
Growing Up Carefully
At two years old, Lucas is curious, active, and full of life — just as he should be. But in a condo with neighbours all around, his parents constantly worry about the noise that comes with being a toddler.
Simple things like running, playing, or laughing loudly can feel like a source of stress instead of joy, as Mark and Karen try to be considerate of those living around them.
Mark works from home, making a functional living environment (with enough space for an office and a toddler) even more important for the family’s daily life. Karen also works part-time, and together they carefully balance work, parenting, and household responsibilities.
Still, the rising cost of rent and the possibility of having to move yet again weigh heavily. The uncertainty makes it difficult to plan or truly feel settled.
A Phone Call That Changed Everything
What they hope for is simple: a permanent, affordable home where Lucas can just be a kid.
An application, interviews, and a phone call settled their future.
“I still remember that moment,” reflects Mark “we were so excited. We started planning right away.”
Putting Down Roots in Community
With Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta, Mark and Karen see an opportunity to put down roots in a community built around families like theirs. They look forward to Lucas growing up surrounded by other children, forming friendships, and having neighbours who understand the sounds and energy that come with young families.
As a family, they spend every spare moment they can outdoors — at parks, on pathways, and exploring nature together. An affordable Habitat home would give them not just more space, but the stability to fully enjoy these moments without the constant worry of rent increases or another move on the horizon.
For Mark, Karen, and Lucas, a Habitat home means more than walls and a roof. It means security, community, and the room their family needs to grow — today and for years to come.
