Like many young couples in Ventura County, Mayra and Jose have struggled to purchase a home for years. Both their families and their careers are in Ventura County, yet they weren't able to afford a house in the place they’ve always called home. Homeownership for their family seemed not only out of reach, but impossible. 

The hardworking couple, Jose a carpenter and Mayra a kindergarten teacher, currently live with Mayra’s parents in their home. Living with family was the only option for them as they saved to one day have a place of their own. 

“We work hard and want to start a family of our own, but also want to be financially stable and have our own place for our future kids to grow up and have space. Plus, we want our own space as a married couple. That’s everything a young, hardworking couple or person should be able to achieve. I know this is a struggle many young people just like us are facing,” said Mayra.

Frustrated and disappointed after years of trying to purchase a home, they applied for Habitat Ventura County’s homeownership program. When they got the call that they had been selected, they knew everything was about to change. 

“It was like a sigh of relief, and our lives can finally begin! Everything is finally falling into place. We’re so grateful to Habitat. They are making our dreams come true,” said Mayra.