Theresa Gibson originally became acquainted with Habitat for Humanity London through her participation and volunteering at the ReStore building cabinetry. She loved the experience of working with her hands and making a difference. Though her volunteerism she learned about what Habitat did and how the organization helped people. Who knew a few years in the future, she would be one of the families that would be the recipient of a home!
Theresa is pragmatic about Habitat, saying, “Habitat has been my means to live in a home with my daughter as my hard work will be the down payment.” Theresa has worked two jobs in the last few years but wasn’t able to save enough money to have a down payment. But with the sweat equity that she and her family committed to providing to the organization, she had the down payment required.
Theresa is a hardworking mom who has a position in shipping and receiving and often works long hours, but the idea of her daughter Jasmine having a yard and home for her unique pet – a sugar glider – made it all worthwhile. Jasmine is excited to have a new bedroom and that it is purple as that’s her favourite colour! She had also made a request for a room with walls of whipped cream – but perhaps we can give her that treat in a can!
Theresa feels all that it took was the initiative to apply for a home. She said that it felt like she had won the lottery when she got the call that she was accepted. Her message is that this happens to regular normal people. More people should investigate the program and apply – it certainly changed her family’s future forever.
