Built on Faith and Hope

For many families, owning a home means more than having a roof over their heads—it’s about finding stability, peace, and the freedom to dream again. For Kelsey Shipley, her journey with Habitat for Humanity was one of restoration, hope, and answered prayers.

“Habitat for Humanity gave me more than a house—it gave me peace of mind and a safe place to call home,” Kelsey shares. “I no longer live in fear of what tomorrow might bring.”

Before partnering with Habitat, Kelsey faced the uncertainty that comes with unstable housing. Each day brought new challenges, and the weight of the unknown often felt unbearable. But even in those dark moments, she held on to her faith—and to the belief that better days were ahead.

“Through it all, I held onto faith,” she reflects. “‘Look at the birds of the air… your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?’ That verse from Matthew 6:26 reminded me I’d be provided for.”

When the opportunity to build and purchase her own Habitat home came, it was a turning point—not just for her living situation, but for her entire future. With the support of Habitat’s team and the hands of countless volunteers, Kelsey’s dream of homeownership became a reality.

“I’m so thankful for the volunteers who made this possible,” she says. “It’s more than building homes; it’s building hope.”

Now, Kelsey is committed to giving back and staying involved with Habitat—just as the community showed up for her when she needed it most.

“I’ll keep showing up for Habitat, just like they showed up for me.”

Her story is a powerful reminder that every home we build is a new beginning. Behind every wall is a story like Kelsey’s—one of perseverance, faith, and transformation.

Kelsey Shipley, Homeowner