Lovetta, a family partner with Wichita Habitat for Humanity, embodies resilience, faith, and the power of community. At 66, she is a dedicated caregiver for her daughter Marrisa and granddaughter Sophia, both of whom have special needs. She is also a mother of two daughters, a grandmother to five, and a great-grandmother to one.

For 19 years, Lovetta and her family lived in Irving, Texas, but her roots have always been in Wichita, Kansas, where she was born and raised. The high cost of living in Texas made it difficult to find a stable, affordable home, intensifying her longing to return to Wichita to be closer to her mother and siblings.

Encouraged by her sister, Lovetta explored Wichita Habitat for Humanity’s homeownership program as a solution to her housing challenges. The prospect of an affordable home provided hope and a renewed sense of purpose. She saw this opportunity to eliminate the fear of homelessness and financial struggles that had plagued her for so long.

On December 14, 2022, Lovetta received a life-changing phone call from Wichita Habitat for Humanity. She had been accepted into the homeownership program, a pivotal moment that marked the beginning of a journey toward stability and security for her family. Lovetta was eager to start her homeownership journey and contribute sweat equity, a key part of the program. One way she did this was by participating in the annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service. Braving the cold weather in January 2024, Lovetta and her daughter Marrisa joined hundreds of volunteers to build the walls of their future home. This experience was a significant step towards achieving their dream.

Lovetta’s faith always played a significant role in her journey. She had prayed for many years for a house and believed her prayers would be answered. Encouragement from her church and an elderly church member—who told her, “Your house is in Wichita—go get your house!”—fueled her determination. Her father’s advice to have more than one skill and to prepare for the future resonated deeply with her. Lovetta chose sewing as her vocation, teaching the craft and running a sewing business. Over the years, she accumulated 17 sewing machines and all the necessary equipment, allowing her to build her business without needing a loan. Her father’s guidance has been a cornerstone of her financial independence and perseverance.

In her new home, Lovetta plans to use the garage as a sewing and crafting space for her business. This will not only support her financially but also help her pay off her home early. She has long envisioned a home where she could create lasting memories with her family, decorate for holidays, and enjoy a sense of security.

“It is a wonderful feeling. I never thought I would ever be able to purchase an affordable house. I tried so hard when I was in Texas; however, I could not afford it. So, I came back here, and look, I’m building a home with my girls and for them. That is a home that we will never, ever leave,” Lovetta said, reflecting on her journey while helping to build her new home.

Lovetta’s mission to provide a stable foundation for her children brought her back to Wichita after nearly two decades in Texas. Her journey with Wichita Habitat for Humanity has been filled with challenges, but also unwavering determination and faith. Through 250 hours of sweat equity and 40 hours of financial literacy courses, Lovetta has solidified her commitment to becoming a homeowner.

Her prayers for a home have been answered, and she places her trust in God’s promises. Today, Lovetta is overjoyed to see her home completed and ready for ownership. Her story is a powerful reminder of the impact of Habitat for Humanity’s mission.

Wichita Habitat for Humanity is proud to have been part of Lovetta’s journey. Her story exemplifies the transformative power of community, faith, and hard work. Congratulations to Lovetta on becoming a homeowner, and thank you to everyone who has supported this mission.