1 minute read
Breaking Down Barriers to Homeownership
by Christina Enriquez
Who are the families that partner with Pensacola Habitat for Humanity? Are they the teacher at your kids’ school, the nurse at your local hospital, or the police officer protecting our neighborhoods?
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The answer is all of the above. Pensacola Habitat for Humanity reaches wide across the community with various programs and services aimed at transforming communities one homeowner at a time.
Meet Karim Muniz
Pensacola Habitat has announced a new homeowner: Karim Muniz. After countless hours on the build site working on her sweat equity and completing all the homeowner readiness courses, she closed on her house on January 24, 2020.
Karim is a single mom with a passion for education. As a special education teacher, Karim empowers students with autism with necessary skills like communication and finds it to be a rewarding job. However, for many years homeownership was out of reach for her. After renting a home with her son for the past 11 years, Karim took charge and decided it was time for a change. Affordable housing options are scarce in Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties, but Karim persevered. After her bid on a home fell through, Karim decided to give Pensacola Habitat for Humanity a try. When she was accepted into the program, overwhelmed with so many emotions, she was finally able to start the process to own a home. “Owning a new home was never a thought on my mind when I began this journey”, said Muniz. Purchasing a home built by Pensacola Habitat means you are investing in your future, and this is exactly what Karim plans to do next. Having a steady, affordable mortgage enables Karim to further her passions. Returning to school and becoming a speech-language pathologist is Karim’s next chapter.
Karim and Kristin O'Bryan, Sr. Communications Associate, hug during Karim's home dedication
Pensacola Habitat joins in partnership with the community to fulfill the dream of homeownership and build homes, communities, and hope! To apply, visit apply.pensacolahabitat.org
