A Red Door and a Place to Call Home 

A Red Door and a Place to Call Home 

Right now, Jasmine and her three daughters live with her mother in an apartment that is far too small, especially as her daughters continue to grow. Her 10-year-old and twin 4-year-olds share one bedroom, and Jasmine dreams of giving them a home with the space they need to grow and thrive.

“All my girls sleep in one room,” Jasmine said. “The kids can’t all be in one room. The twins need a room and my oldest needs a room… I grew up with siblings so I know space is needed.” 

Beyond giving her daughters and mother more space, Jasmine wants to give them stability, something that has been difficult to find while renting.

“It’s about stability,” Jasmine said. “To give the kids somewhere to actually grow up. It’s hard to do in society right now.” 

Now, Jasmine is finding that stability through homeownership. Through Milwaukee Habitat’s Affordable Homeownership Program, she is building a brand-new home where her daughters and mother will have the space they need to live comfortably and create lasting memories together.

As she imagines moving into her new home, Jasmine recalls conversations she had with her oldest daughter when she was younger. 

“I think my older one might be really excited,” Jasmine said. “She used to talk about houses when she was younger. She used to say she wants a red door.” 

Whether her daughter still dreams of a red door or has another vision in mind, Jasmine is looking forward to making the home their own. 

“I’m excited about decorating the kids’ rooms,” Jasmine said. “My oldest’s favorite color is blue.” 

Before long, Jasmine and her family will begin turning their house into a home. And when she thinks about what homeownership will mean for her family, Jasmine knows it will change their lives. They will soon move into a 4-bedroom house, giving each family member the space and freedom they need to thrive. Instead of feeling cramped, they will have room to spread out, rest, grow, and feel comfortable in their own home.

“I feel like it will be a whole weight lifted,” Jasmine said. “It is something to maintain and have somewhere for the kids and my mom. We don’t have to worry. I’m just ready.” 

Soon, Jasmine and her family will walk through their front door for the first time and start making new memories together. Whether that door is red or another color entirely, it will open to something Jasmine has dreamed of for years: a stable home where her family can grow together.