Homeownership: A New Beginning

Homeownership: A New Beginning

For the Tillmans, homeownership is about more than just buying a house, it is about bringing their family back together. 

Sylvia and Kenneth have been married for 14 years and have a 13-year-old son, Kendall. Kenneth lives with his mother to support her as she adjusts to life after his father’s passing, while Sylvia and Kendall live in a rented home. Sylvia and Kenneth want to buy a home together and reunite as a family.

Sylvia spearheaded the search for a home and, after exploring other programs in the area, came to Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity based on a friend’s recommendation. She applied for the program and she and Kenneth were accepted to build a home through Milwaukee Habitat’s Homeownership program. Since Kenneth didn’t know they were accepted, she surprised him with the news.

“We always talked about getting a house,” Kenneth said. “I was wanting it but she was talking about it and praying about it. All of a sudden she calls me and said we’re in this program. It was happening so fast and I was just so happy. It’s a blessing.”

They see homeownership as an opportunity to bring their family together again and establish stability for their family and health.

Sylvia is currently on dialysis and on the transplant list for a kidney, attending dialysis treatment three times a week for nearly four hours each session. Despite these challenges, Sylvia stays optimistic.

“[Dialysis] is helping me live,” Sylvia said. “I don’t see it as anything bad. It can be challenging and tiring, but it is part of my life right now. I’m waiting to get a transplant and then I will have more independence.” 

Kenneth knows how difficult this process can be and is constantly amazed by her positive attitude.

“I can call her while she’s at [dialysis] and she’s happy,” Kenneth said. “Her spirit is happy.”

This happy spirit extends to other parts of Sylvia’s life as she envisions the benefits homeownership will bring to her family, including son Kendall.

“It’s an investment in his future and we will be leaving a legacy,” Sylvia said. “One day it will be his. We want to dedicate it to him when we’re gone.”

They also view homeownership as a new beginning for their relationship and family.

“There is so much joy knowing you have a home,” Kenneth said. “To me, it’s about us being back together. Not only do I have my family back, but moving into a home with my family. Having a fire pit, barbeques, watching my boy say ‘that’s my room,’ a basement, nfl Sundays…unbelievable excitement.” 

As Kenneth shares his excitement, Sylvia tears up and shares:

“It’s an extraordinary feeling.. to go in there and say ‘this is mine.’ You have to claim what you got and keep going. This is the prize at the end. The prize at the end is the home. That’s the end goal.” 

As they look forward to the moments that await them in their new home, the Tillmans find strength in their shared vision of a brighter future together.