Journey of Faith and Perseverance: Sally’s Path to Home Ownership

In 2011, my late husband Maoluma, our four children and I, were accepted into Habitat for Humanity’s Progressive Home Ownership Programme. Though our journey to homeownership was not always easy, it was one of the best decisions we could have made for our family.

We first heard about Habitat through a church friend. Excited and hopeful, we applied, attended meetings, and prayed as we waited for the decision to be made. Talk about excitement when we got Habitat’s call!

We began building our home with Habitat and support from friends, family and our church. Some months later we received tragic news. My husband was diagnosed with cancer. We sat in the car for a good hour and cried. We just couldn’t believe it and didn’t know what to do, especially about the house. But my husband was determined to continue in the process and make this home our own.

In between hospital visits and work we continued with our Habitat journey. My husband was adament he wanted to finish our house – our home – as looking into the future we had no idea what would happen.

On the 4th of September 2011 we were overjoyed to move into our new home, celebrating the blessing with my husband, children and extended family. One week later, my husband passed.

We so appreciated the support of Habitat throughout this difficult time. They went above and beyond to ensure that our family was supported and could continue on our homeownership journey despite everything.

My daughter’s name was added to the Sales and Purchase agreement. As a Polynesian people, our family unit is very close, so everyone came together to contribute to our home.

Despite financial challenges and personal health battles, Habitat have remained a steadfast partner. Their Financial Literacy workshops and encouragement were invaluable. Despite setbacks, including the loss of my parents and health issues, we persevered.

In 2023, we officially became homeowners. I cannot say enough of how proud we are to have completed this journey to homeownership alongside Habitat. We've been able to navigate the complexities of home ownership with their guidance, learning about mortgages, legalities, and financial planning. We couldn’t have done it without their support.

Our path to home ownership, though difficult at times, has been a testament to the strength of community and the power of long-term partnership.