After a year and a half of navigating a competitive housing market, Tonisha was beginning to lose hope. Tight timelines and missed opportunities made homeownership feel out of her grasp — until she discovered Homes Within Reach.
Her journey began with Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity, a program she learned about through her employer and family. Her father found a newspaper article about a first-time homebuyer grant with Habitat, it was then that Tonisha decided to give it one more try—and she’s so glad she did.
“When I learned that my home could possibly be mine, I prayed really hard each night and kept it a secret,” she said. “My hopes had been crushed so many times before.” It was understandable that she was very nervous it would happen again.
Everything changed when she found a home in the neighborhood she had always dreamed of. “The neighborhood and the people were welcoming.” she shared, “The home had everything we needed and wanted,”
Since moving in, Tonisha says her life has transformed: “My life is less stressful and I enjoy life a whole lot more. I was stressed about finding a home for my daughter and I for a very long time.” Now, she says, her daughter is thriving, their dog is loving the yard, and their new routine includes neighborhood walks and visits to the nearby park. Plus there is ample space for Tonisha and her daughter to invite family over for game night fun!
For Tonisha, homeownership through Homes Within Reach means more than just having a house—it’s about security, peace, and community. Her message to other families who are struggling in their search: “Keep going. Keep praying and never let anyone tell you that you cannot accomplish homeownership. Everyone has a different path but no matter how fast or slow the journey, there will always be the reward of having your own home, which in the end is so worth it.”