What does it mean to be a first-time homeowner? For Melanie Marquez of Mount Dora, it means building something to last forever.

Originally from Puerto Rico, Melanie first learned about Habitat through a family member who lost their home in Hurricane Maria back in 2017. That experience stuck with her. Years later, now living in Mount Dora and working hard as a medical assistant, she started looking for her own way to build something stable, and remembered Habitat.

Though the process was both exciting and intimidating, Melanie describes it as a journey marked by constant support and reassurance. “

It was scary and happy not knowing what to expect or do,” she says, “but I always had my questions answered. I never felt alone or unheard.”

(The Marquez family will soon have a home to call their own thanks to Habitat for Humanity Lake-Sumter, Florida.)

The Home Ownership Program at Habitat for Humanity Lake-Sumter is one of the organization’s cornerstone initiatives, focused on building affordable homes while providing tailored support to help new homeowners navigate their responsibilities and embrace their new roles.

Melanie applied not once, but three times before being selected. It wasn’t easy, but she never gave up. That determination and drive are just part of who she is. And when she finally got the call, she knew it was the beginning of something big.

(The moment the Marquez family found out they were being selected for Habitat for Humanity. It was very emotional and a long journey to get to this point.)

Through this program, Melanie was finally given the opportunity to create a place she could truly call her own, a forever home.

“We can make it ours,” she says. “When you rent a house, you can’t paint it the way you want. You can’t make it cozy because there are rules to follow. But having your own home means you can go home, make it cozy, and be together as a family. We can create good memories here.”

Right now, Melanie rents in Mount Dora, but soon, she’ll be turning the key to a home that’s completely hers. She’s excited, she’s grateful, and above all, she feels blessed to be creating a space that her family can grow into.

Melanie is quick to acknowledge that this home wasn’t simply given, it was earned. After finally being accepted, she is deeply grateful for the chance to build a better future.

“I want to thank Habitat for all the help and support since day one,” she says. “Thank you for everything. And thank you to the students for all their hard work in building our forever home.”

Story provided by Katrina Machetta