Our Homeowners

Habitat Catawba Valley celebrates a new homeowner Jailen with dedication and closing ceremony

Jailen shares that one of his greatest accomplishments is building a strong and loving family. Despite life’s challenges, he has worked hard to create stability, keep his faith at the center, and provide his children with a safe and happy childhood. 
April – Habitat Homeowner Services Director

On Saturday May 2nd, we gathered to celebrate Jailen—a devoted single father, local non-profit team member, and a recent graduate of the Catawba County Chamber’s Leadership Catawba program—at his home dedication. With Pastor Amanda speaking words of blessing and Mayor Hank Guess offering heartfelt congratulations, we honored a man whose faith, work ethic, and love for his three young children have paved the way for this moment.

Then, two days later, the dream became reality. Jailen closed on his new home, surrounded by a small crew of Habitat Catawba Valley staff and members of Design Foundry. And thanks to the generosity of Design Foundry, he walked into a house with not just empty walls—but one with a beautiful, brand new sofa waiting to welcome his family. Jailen and his children enjoyed their first meal in their new home provided by North Hickory Market.

For Jailen, home means safety, stability, and love. A place where Sunday church, downtown walks, park visits, and Chuck E. Cheese memories keep growing. A foundation for his kids to thrive. Last week, hope got an address. Congratulations, Jailen!

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When you subscribe to homeownership in Catawba County and become a monthly Hopebuilder, you are helping to secure future homeownership opportunities for local community members like Jailen. Build hope with us. Become a hopebuilder today:

 

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Funding a Dream

Funding a Dream

Your Support Builds Futures with Downpayment Assistance

 

Hickory, NC (Oct. 8, 2025)-

In a market where home values are soaring and wages are struggling to keep up, the math of homeownership simply doesn’t work for many hardworking families. The dream of a safe, stable home can feel utterly out of reach.

But at Habitat Catawba Valley, we believe homeownership should be attainable – not merely aspirational. For Hailey, becoming a mother changed everything-so she became a Habitat homeowner to change what was possible for her daughter, Genesis. Determined to build a better future, Hailey completed recovery treatment, graduated from transitional housing, secured steady work, obtained consistent housing, and saved money. Life was stable, but she wanted more. Her goal: homeownership by Genesis’ first day of kindergarten. A Habitat home is more than a foundation-it’s a door to greater opportunity. Affordable homeownership transforms every aspect of our lives.  

“I chose the name Genesis because she was my light in the dark, and a beginning to a new life,” Hailey shares.

– Hailey, Habitat Catawba Valley Homeowner

 

Read on to discover how Hailey opened the door to a new beginning with Habitat

 

How do we keep mortgages affordable? Through our critical Downpayment Assistance Loan Program. A portion of every gift we receive helps provide these zero or low-interest loans, which act as a bridge over the affordability gap.


The Soaring Cost of Homeownership

The numbers tell a stark story:

  • 72% vs. 42%: Over the last five years, the value of a typical Habitat home in Catawba Valley has increased by 72%, despite no changes to our house plans. Yet, the average income of our partner families has only increased by 42% in that same period.

  • The Affordability Gap is Widening: This disparity creates a chasm that families cannot cross alone.

How You Are Building the Bridge

Our community’s support has allowed us to meet this challenge head-on. We’ve made a steadfast commitment to ensure that rising costs don’t lock our neighbors out of homeownership.

  • +1,696%: Over the last five years, we have increased our total annual downpayment assistance by 1,696%.

  • $537,900: In the last year alone, HCV provided $537,900 in downpayment assistance to keep homeownership within reach.

  • 24%: We cap mortgage payments at 24% of a family’s monthly income, ensuring there is money left over for life’s other necessities.

The result? The average total house payment for a Habitat family over the last five years is just $689.58, including taxes and insurance.

This is the tangible impact of your support. It’s what makes stories like Hailey’s possible.

you can fund a dream

View more of Hailey and Gen’s Habitat Journey

Hailey’s Story: A New Beginning for a Mother and Daughter

For Hailey, becoming a mother changed everything—so she became a Habitat homeowner to change what was possible for her daughter, Genesis.

“I chose the name Genesis because she was my light in the dark, and a beginning to a new life,” Hailey shares.

Determined to build a better future, Hailey completed recovery treatment, graduated from transitional housing, secured steady work, and saved money. Life was stable, but she wanted more. Her goal was clear: homeownership by Genesis’ first day of kindergarten.

“Homeownership was always a goal for me, but achieving that dream just seemed so impossible,” Hailey admits. “I thought living in apartments was going to be our story for the rest of our lives. I came to Habitat because I knew there was no other way.”

Through Habitat, Hailey put in her sweat equity, took financial management classes, built a savings plan, and finally received the keys to her own home. Along the way, she gained so much more than just a residence. She gained confidence and the satisfaction of watching Genesis return from kindergarten to a home of their own.

Most importantly, she gained the knowledge that Genesis is now 19% more likely to graduate high school and 50% more likely to attend college simply by growing up as the child of a homeowner.

As she marks her first year of homeownership, Hailey has earned a promotion, completed classes to become a Peer Support Specialist, and, most importantly, created a lasting foundation for her daughter.

You Keep the Door Open

Your support makes this increase in downpayment assistance possible. You are protecting families from rising costs and ensuring that, even in a challenging market, a safe, stable home is not a privilege for a few, but a possibility for many.

Will you help us ensure more families like Hailey’s can build a future where they can thrive?

Together, we are building stronger futures, one downpayment, one sweat equity hour, and one dream at a time

open the door

a tool for whatever life brings

A Tool For Whatever Life Brings

 

Hickory, NC (July 8, 2025)-

For 40 years, Habitat for Humanity of Catawba Valley has built more than just houses. We’ve built opportunity, stability, and hope. From first-time homebuyers planting roots to longtime homeowners preserving their homes for the next generation, Habitat walks alongside families through every phase of their housing journey.  

Ms. McIlwain’s story captures that journey beautifully. A single mother of four, she partnered with Habitat in 2009 to become the first homeowner in her family. That milestone, made possible through her grit, faith, and determination, created a foundation for her children’s future and became a symbol of everything she had worked so hard to achieve.  

Habitat’s commitment didn’t end when Ms. McIlwain received her keys. Years later, as her home began to show signs of wear and her health and income made it difficult to keep up with repairs, she reached out again. This time, Habitat returned through Habitat Repairs, replacing her HVAC system, addressing moisture damage, and repairing plumbing and drainage issues to help protect and preserve her home.

 

“You must work hard for it and be committed throughout the entire journey. Fortunately, I have always stayed in contact with Habitat Catawba Valley. When I have any questions, they are there.” 

– Ms. McIlwain, Habitat Repairs Client and Homeowner

Her words reflect what makes Habitat different. We’re not just builders. We’re long-term partners.  

 Through our Homeownership Program, families like Ms. McIlwain’s gain access to safe, affordable housing along with the education and support needed to succeed. Through our Repairs Program, seniors, veterans, and long-standing homeowners receive help to maintain their homes, stay safe, and remain part of the communities they’ve helped shape. 

 Housing is more than shelter. It’s health, education, and financial security. Thanks to supporters like you, Ms. McIlwain isn’t just staying in her home—she’s preparing to pass it on. Her house has become a lasting gift to her children and a testament to what’s possible when community comes together. 

 As the need for affordable housing continues to grow, so does our commitment to meet it. With your support, we can build on the momentum of the past 40 years and create a future where every family has the opportunity to thrive.

🛠 Help Build What Comes Next

Your support powers every step of the journey—from the first key in the door to critical repairs that keep homes safe for generations. When you give, you help families lay strong foundations and protect what matters most. Let’s keep building. Homes. Futures. Hope.

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Habitat Catawba Valley Welcomes a New Homeowner in Ridgeview

Habitat Catawba Valley Welcomes a New Homeowner in Ridgeview

 

Hickory, NC (Aug 5, 2024)-

Habitat Catawba Valley is thrilled to announce that John, a 2 year homeownership program participant, has officially moved into his forever home. This milestone was celebrated with a small, heartfelt gathering of Habitat staff, who were eager to welcome John into his new community via cutting the ribbon to his front porch.

John’s journey to homeownership is a testament to the power of family, perseverance, and the support of a caring community. Originally, John was slated to move into a new home in the Cottages at Ridgeview. However, a unique opportunity arose that allowed him to be closer to his family—right next door to his sister, Nancy, who is also a Habitat homeowner. When this home became available, the Habitat crew quickly sprang into action, renovating the house and turning it into a cozy and welcoming space tailored to John’s needs. 

“I am what you say a people person. I like to actually get to know my neighbors and extend a hand out anytime they need help with something they have going on”

John has deep roots in Catawba County, where he has lived for over 30 years, building a life centered around hard work, family, and community. A retired diesel mechanic, John has faced challenges with resilience and grace, always staying connected to those who matter most. Now, with the support of Habitat Catawba Valley, he has a stable, safe place to call his own, just steps away from his sister.

This home is more than just bricks and mortar; it’s a symbol of hope, security, and the enduring bonds of family. It’s a place where John can continue to build cherished memories, surrounded by the people he loves and the community that has embraced him. Tina, who worked as homeowner services director during John’s journey, had this to say about him “It’s the end of home buyer journey and the beginning of the homeownership journey, to emphasize our ongoing partnership with our families. John’s been an outstanding partner so far, and I’m sure will continue to be. He’s going to be a great homeowner!”

We are so proud to have played a part in John’s journey to homeownership and are confident that his new home will bring him and members of his family years of happiness and comfort.

Welcome home, John B—here’s to new beginnings and a bright future ahead!

We at Habitat Catawba Valley would like to thank all in the community who helped make this homeownership opportunity possible.

If you or your organization would like to support our mission to provide hardworking individuals homeownership opportunities, please contact Katherine Bewley at  828-328-4663 ext 108 or [email protected].

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Celebrating Community and Partnership: Home Sponsor First Baptist Church and Habitat Catawba Valley Dedicate a New Home

Celebrating Community and Partnership: First Baptist Church and Habitat Catawba Valley Dedicate a New Home

 

Hickory, NC (June 15, 2024)-

At Habitat Catawba Valley, we are driven by our mission to put God’s love into action and bring people together to build homes, communities, and hope. Recently, this mission was realized and celebrated through our partnership with First Baptist Church of Hickory, home sponsor of the “Frances Hilton Home”. We held a dedication at the newly finished home for two deserving soon to be homeowners—Edgar and John. This event underscored the power of community partnership and collective effort, as well as honored the long-standing support of Frances Hilton.

The partnership between First Baptist Church, Hickory, and Habitat Catawba Valley is founded on shared values of service, compassion, community building, and the love of Jesus Christ. First Baptist Church has consistently demonstrated its dedication to uplifting those in need, making this collaboration a natural extension of their ongoing commitment to the community. Pastors Joshua Barrett and Larry Phillips played a significant role in the dedication ceremony, exemplifying the church’s spirit of unity and purpose. 

The home build was sponsored by First Baptist Church in honor of Frances Hilton, a longtime supporter of Habitat Catawba Valley. Frances Hilton’s dedication to our cause has been unwavering, and her presence at the dedication ceremony added a special significance to the event. Her legacy of support continues to inspire our community and drives our mission forward.

 

“We look forward to moving into this house to have the room for my girls to grow. They’re getting older and that’s going to be huge – somewhere we can call home ”

Edgar, the soon-to-be homeowner of the First Baptist Church Sponsor Build, embodies the values of hard work and family dedication. Working 40-45 hours a week at for a local fire safety company, Edgar is a devoted father to three daughters, ages 8, 7, and 5. Despite the challenges of balancing work and family life, Edgar has always ensured his daughters have the most fulfilling and loving life possible. Due to financial constraints, Edgar has lived with his mother for the past couple of years to afford rent while receiving help with his girls. His new home represents a significant step towards independence and stability for his family.

John, a retired former diesel mechanic who is now disabled, has been in the Habitat homeownership program since 2022. His journey in the program has been one of selfless devotion to help those around him, all while embodying a spirit of hard work and devotion. John has two sons, one of which lives in Conover, and the other in Salt Lake City, Utah. John has four sisters, one who is since deceased. John was originally scheduled to move into the Frances Hilton – First Baptist Church home, however, an opportunity to relocate closer to his sister came like a sign from God. John is now scheduled to close on his forever home in the July of 2024. His home, which was an early 2000’s Habitat build and was offered for sale by the owner, was acquired by us and will be renovated and refreshed for his needs. 

 

The home dedication ceremony was a beautiful testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with a common purpose. Members of First Baptist Church, Habitat Catawba Valley volunteers, and supporters gathered to celebrate this milestone. The atmosphere was filled with warmth, camaraderie, and a shared sense of accomplishment. At the ceremony, John and Edgar were presented with gifts of a hammer and a Bible. The hammer is a symbol of the hard work our homebuyers have put in, and all the hands and hearts the have joined along way. The gift of a Bible is a symbol of the love that joins us, the grace that carries us, and the room that is prepared for us, so that God may bless and keep our new homeowners for all of their days.   

Watch The Full Dedication Video Here

We at Habitat Catawba Valley would like to thank First Baptist Church of Hickory for their partnership, all of their members who attended and assisted in this amazing event, and Frances Hilton for her ongoing support of Habitat.

If you or your organization would like to support our mission to provide hardworking individuals homeownership opportunities, please contact Katherine Bewley at  828-328-4663 ext 108 or [email protected].

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Latoya Ramseur Family

Latyoya is amazed that she will be able to have a home of her own, and won’t have to worry about moving here and there. It will be a stable, life changing experience. She will get to create a great environment and positive atmosphere for her son. She wants nothing more than to set a good example for him and wants to be a strong role model motivating him in a positive direction every day! Latoya believes having a stable and secure home life will lead to a better future for them both. She is determined to do all she can to make Ny’Meir’s dream of college and an awesome future come true.

The Apostle Build is a collaboration of local churches who come together in service, prayer, and fellowship to build strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter. We know that strong and stable homes build strong and stable communities. We are called to love our neighbors as ourselves. And we believe that with a little help, everyone has the potential to stand on their own. Therefore, each Apostle Build cycle, members of the faith community join together with Habitat to put their faith into action by co-sponsoring and co-building a house in partnership with a neighbor in need. Together, they create a foundation upon which a family can build their future.

If you would like more information on how your church can become an Apostle Builder, contact Jenna Ross at 828-328-4663×315 or [email protected].

Ie & Jeramie

The couple is confident that becoming homeowners will change their lives and their daugh-ter’s future. Ie says, “We are blessed to have this opportunity to become future homeowners. We’ve always wanted to celebrate holidays and have family get-togethers at our own place!” They admit to being a little nervous, but are happy that they will be able to have their own home.

Billy & Tasha

The family lives in a 2-bedroom trailer that is poorly insulated with a furnace that can’t keep up with the demand for heat or air, which leaves them with extremely high power bills. Tasha got the phone call that they were accepted into Habitat’s homeownership program. She was bursting with excitement and ran to tell Billy, who had just finished his night shift at work, taken his daughter to school, and was headed for bed! He wondered what all the commotion was about. While Tasha was still sharing the good news Billy was already planning how they could get started on those 500 sweat equity hours. He said he didn’t mind working hard on someone else’s house because he knew his family would eventually be able to have a home of their own. He has always wanted his children to have a better life than he did growing up.

Billy said, “Our lives will be changed because I don’t ever want to make my children move, or have to change schools every year so we can find a better place to live. They’ll be able to keep their friends and never need to share a bedroom. I look at my daughter and my son and see a very bright future for them in our fun and loving home. We could actually invite family and friends over without feeling ashamed about where we live.”

His first question after hearing this fantastic news was whether there was any sweat equity work hours he could work that day before he goes home to get some sleep.

With support from people like you, we are building something better for Billy and his family.

Special thanks to Frye Regional Medical Center for sponsoring Billy and Tasha’s Habitat house.


Kellie Houston

Support This Build

I am living in Conover in a 3-bedroom trailer that is in terrible shape. The power bills are $350-$450 in thehottest and coldest weather and I am challenged to catch up on the payments in the few months in between.

Being accepted into the Habitat homeownership program is a dream come true for myself. When you are single it’s hard to get ahead and being a homeowner will change my life completely. It will give me a sense of well-being. I won’t have to worry any more about the extremely high utility bills or being cold in the winter. I can actually enjoy the snow! I am extremely lucky to have this opportunity.

*Please include “Apostle Build” in the donation form’s Additional Comments section.

Yesica Xiong Family

 This family stays busy. Aedrey loves music and plays the piano. She also enjoys church, playing soccer and her favorite subject is science. Yestin likes soccer, church and loves to read a lot of books. Mom enjoys working out and staying fit.

Yesica says that they were very happy and thankful that their family was accepted for the homeownership program. She couldn’t wait to tell her family the good news. She is convinced that the only way to improve their lives is to force themselves to undergo difficult changes, but Habitat has given them the opportunity to feel comfortable and stable in accomplishing one of her dreams — to have a place to call HOME!

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Mahongany

When asked how she felt and what she did when she found out she was accepted into Habitat’s program Mahongany said, “I was very excited because this is my third time trying to get into the program. I’m ready to become a homeowner and to be able to call this home mine!”

The family believes becoming homeowners will change their lives for the better. Having a yard for the girls to play in means a lot to them. It’s right up there with not having to share a small bedroom, and not having another tenant living above them!