At Beaches Habitat for Humanity, we believe everyone should have a safe and stable place to live. Our goal is to build more than homes—we build brighter futures. For Kathy Carrasquillo, a hardworking mom of three and a full-time worker at the University of Florida’s Hematology/Oncology department, this goal came true in June 2024. That’s when she and her children moved into their new home in Atlantic Beach. Now, almost a year later, Kathy’s story shows how much affordable housing and support from others can change a life.

From Struggles to Stability

Before working with Beaches Habitat, Kathy said life was tough. “It was not so great…everything was a struggle,” she explained. Kathy grew up in Brooklyn, New York, and later moved to Florida. A friend, who already had a Beaches Habitat home, told her about the program. Kathy missed the deadline to apply the first time, but she didn’t give up. When applications opened again in 2022, she applied right away.

“When I got the call…I actually started crying but felt at peace at the same time,” Kathy said.

The Power of Sweat Equity

To earn her new home, Kathy helped build it through “sweat equity.” This means she volunteered her time to work on the house and help build homes for others too. “It’s hard work, but it feels good. You feel proud because you’re helping others and building your own home,” she said.

A Sense of Security

After nearly a year of living in her home, Kathy says the biggest change is a newfound feeling of security. “We have something that is ours and no one can take it away,” she said. With that safety comes responsibility—to take care of the home and give her children, Jaylin, Ariana, and Karter, a good place to grow up.

“It’s been a bit of an adjustment and not always easy, but I can see they’re thankful too,” she added.

Inspiration for the Future

Kathy’s dreams don’t stop with homeownership. She’s focused on building a strong foundation for her children’s futures and leading by example.

To others who may become Beaches Habitat homeowners, Kathy shares this advice: “Be ready for the journey, stick with it, and enjoy it—because when it’s over, you’ll be amazed at what you did.”

Thanks to her affordable mortgage through Beaches Habitat for Humanity, Kathy is now a proud homeowner in Atlantic Beach. Her story shows what can happen when hard work and support from others come together.

To learn more about Beaches Habitat for Humanity’s homeownership programs, click here.