Affordable Housing and Health: One Homeowner’s Journey From Stress to Serenity

Fifteen-year-old Erin plans to be a cardiologist. She recently wrote a feature about a family whose health improved as a result of moving into their Atlanta Habitat home.

Before they moved into their new Atlanta Habitat home, Alexandria and her family were completely stressed out. Even though they lived in an apartment complex where, every night and every morning, noisy neighbors disturbed their peace. Constant banging, knocking, and thumping on their walls and shouting arguments interfered with their sleep so much that her daughter couldn’t complete her homework nor focus in the classroom.

Not only was the family burdened by all of the noise, Alexandria’s living expenses kept increasing. A $50 bill jumped to $200. Her rent was scheduled to rise as well. The constant stress and financial uncertainty wreaked havoc on Alexandria’s budget and health.

When she finally qualified to become an Atlanta Habitat homebuyer, Alexandria was thrilled! Atlanta Habitat’s homeowner education classes and owning an affordable, energy-efficient house were life-changing. Her daughter now has a quiet place to study. Once they moved in, their health began to improve.

Since Atlanta Habitat provided Alexandria the tools she needed to successfully own and maintain her home, she no longer has the same level of pressure. According to the American Institute of Stress, prolonged exposure causes serious health problems, including fatigue, headaches and possibly, heart problems. “My bills are reasonable, I can purchase healthier food, my daughter is excelling at school, and I can see where my money is going. Thanks to our new home, we’re enjoying life!”