The First in the Family

The First in the Family

Celeste is beginning her journey to homeownership, becoming the first in her family to do so. 

This isn’t the first time Celeste has been a trailblazer. As the seventh of ten children, Celeste was also the first to graduate high school, attend college, and graduate from college. 

That same energy and determination that helped Celeste accomplish her educational goals is now driving her toward becoming a first-time homebuyer.

Through Milwaukee Habitat’s Affordable Homeownership program, Celeste is building a brand-new home for her and her two children. Celeste has a 17-year-old daughter, a three-year-old son, and often takes care of her six-year-old niece. 

“My son, he’s a momma’s boy,” Celeste said. “He loves Spiderman. When he meets you, he tries to web you. My daughter likes basketball and video games…My niece is a pure diva. She likes her nails done, makeup done. A Disney princess. That’s what I call her.”

Providing her children and niece with a stable home continues to motivate Celeste on her homeownership journey.

“I just want something of my own,” Celeste said. “I want something for me and my kids.”

As her children and niece witness Celeste’s hard work and commitment, she hopes that one day they are inspired to purchase their own home too.

“Maybe they will follow in my footsteps and own their own someday,” Celeste said. “I want them to know they can do it…I want them to know that we have a place to call home now.”

Before applying to Milwaukee Habitat’s program, Celeste explored the housing market online, but found most home prices were out of reach. A friend who owns a Habitat home encouraged her to apply.

“I like her house a lot,” Celeste said. “My specific block, I like it too. There’s a row of Habitat houses. It’s its own little community.”

As Celeste gets ready to move into her Habitat home, she knows it will be a proud moment. 

“It’s going to mean everything,” Celeste said. “It’s going to mean a lot. I don’t know how to explain it. It will feel like I really did accomplish something.”