Atlanta Habitat brings together families who dream of achieving homeownership, and house sponsors who play a crucial role in helping individuals manifest that very goal. For Jailonda and her family, it came by way of Leslie Hurst.

“When my husband (Steve Hurst) passed away in September 2019, I was thinking about a way to honor his memory,” said Leslie. “There were certainly a number of worthwhile charities to choose from but building a Habitat house got me the most excited.”

Leslie’s excitement was met with an overwhelming amount of support and donations from her family and friends. They were all looking forward to building alongside Jailonda, but due to the rising safety concerns surrounding the continuing pandemic, the Atlanta Habitat construction and warehouse teams built on their behalf.

“While the COVID pandemic prevented us from being onsite, we are all so appreciative that Atlanta Habitat found a way to complete the build,” added Leslie.

Jailonda’s dreams of having a safe place that she and her children can call home recently came true on her move-in day in October. She said, “My children will now be able to play in the yard without me having to worry about their safety, and this is something that I will be forever grateful for.”

The move-in marked the realization of two dreams as Leslie explained that “as much as this home is a dream come true for Jailonda and her family, it is a dream come true for all of us too!”